After successfully setting up Bromley parkrun, Ashlee Corfe handed over the event to a well trained, confident and friendly team at Bromley. She thought that South London could do with another parkrun and there wasn’t a better place than Crystal Palace Park. “I think that the heritage and the build-up to the Olympics will impact this park and what a time to utilise the space with local runners during this occasion,” commented Ashlee.

When the word got out that parkrun was coming to Crystal Palace the e-mails started flooding in saying that clubs, people, etc were so excited and could not wait to have one near them. Since starting, Crystal Palace parkrun took off and within the first month it has averaged 57 people per week. The volunteer team are extremely dedicated with lots of enthusiasm. The feedback from the participants is extremely positive even though people say the course is tough due to some hills but that is what makes it.

The good thing about Crystal Palace parkrun is that you can turn the day into an outing for the whole family by having a picnic, checking out the Dinosaur area, National Sports Centre and Athletics Stadium or the farm. For more information please visit the Crystal Palace Park website. So what is holding you back?

Come down and experience this high energy, friendly atmosphere for yourself. Even if you don’t want to run but would like to be a part of the team we are always looking for new volunteers.
To register please go to www.parkrun.com or for more information please contact Ashlee Corfe on 020 8323 1718 or e-mail events@bromleymytime.org.uk

With the closing date for registration fast approaching – entries close Sunday, 17 May – the Wellness Run offers a 5km or a 10km track as well as a host of family activities, from bouncy castles and penalty shoot-outs through to musical entertainment.   To enter, simply log on to www.wellnessrun.org.uk and complete the application form.

Now in its fourth year, the Wellness Run has chosen to support Diabetes UK – the largest organisation in the UK working for people with diabetes, funding research, campaigning and helping people live with the condition.  All money raised from the event will be donated to the charity and anyone wanting a free fundraising pack should contact the Diabetes UK Support Team www.diabetes.org.uk or call
020 7424 1116.

Diabetes UK is committed to funding more than £7 million of medical research every year to help find a cure.  Currently 2.3 million people in the UK are diagnosed with diabetes and more than 500,000 also have the condition, but are not aware of it.

Roz Rosenblatt, London Regional Manager at Diabetes UK, said: “We are delighted that once again the Wellness Run has chosen to fundraise for Diabetes UK and raise awareness of diabetes. The run will not only be a fun day for all, but will also raise funds which will go towards the vital work of Diabetes UK and raise awareness of the importance of physical activity – a key factor for good diabetes management.”

This year’s Wellness run will also see a series of children’s running activities organised  alongside the main event.  These include:-

• 25 metre tots race – for ages 0 – 4 years
• 100 metre kids race – for ages 5 – 10 years
• 3km active race – for ages 11 – 15 years

All races for under 16 years are free of charge.  A registration fee of £10 applies for members of GLL’s Wellness prepaid health and fitness or £15 for non-members.  GLL also offers 5k and 10k training plans to help people prepare for the event.  For further information log on to www.wellnessrun.org.uk

Comments event organiser, Wendy Balch: “The Wellness Run is a fun day out for the whole family to enjoy – it’s the perfect way to keep fit and enjoy yourself at the same time.  Having a goal really helps to keep people motivated as they train in the gym, pool or on the track.  There is something for everyone – even if you just want to support and cheer the runners on.  And, everyone who completes the race will receive a medal.  We’re also out to raise awareness for this year’s charity, Diabetes UK.  So, sign up now and secure your place on the run.”