Express & Star

In photos: Hundreds hit the trail for Walsall Arboretum's Christmas Day parkrun

More than 500 people took to Walsall Arboretum to take part in a festive run event.

Published

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565

While many may have been getting their turkeys ready for the oven, hundreds were lacing up their running shoes for Walsall Arboretum's festive 5k event. 

The Christmas Day parkrun saw 664 runners and 37 volunteers take to the beautiful surroundings of the park to join in on the jolly run.

The festive run event saw almost 600 people attend
The festive run event saw almost 600 people attend

The run started at 9am and saw the nearly 700-strong group run the 5k route around the arboretum's grounds.

Jason Adams, 43, who participated in the Christmas run, said: "It was a great run. It was amazing seeing so many people out and about taking part. 

"It's honestly a fantastic thing to do with the family after opening your presents. Everyone had a fantastic time."

Nicola James visited the parkrun event with her family and friends
Nicola James visited the parkrun event with her family and friends

The arboretum's parkrun is held at 9am every Saturday and sees hundreds of people run the 'friendly and fun' 5k. 

Visiting the run with her family, Sarah Taylor said: "It's just a really nice thing to do on Christmas morning.

"It's a bit different, a bit quirky, but it's a great way to socialise and burn some calories before your Christmas dinner."

Hundreds of people attended the Christmas run in Walsall Arboretum
Hundreds of people attended the Christmas run in Walsall Arboretum

Walsall Arboretum parkrun thanked those who attended on Facebook, also congratulating those who achieved special milestones. 

Runners started at 9am, with many dressing up as Christmas themed characters
Runners started at 9am, with many dressing up as Christmas themed characters

On Facebook, the organisers said: "Thanks to all the 664 runners and 37 volunteers who made our Christmas Day parkrun fun and (importantly from a run directing perspective) safe and stress-free.

"Congratulations to: Manjit Hardava, Rhianna Brooke, Tara Wilkes and Sue Benzie for completing their 25th parkrun; Ralph Patel (JM10), Darren Beattie and Matthew Sparks for finishing their 50th parkrun; Alex Dicken, Patrick O'Connor, Shelley Nicholls, Angela Oury, Helen Washbrook, Darsh Chatha and Kat Wharmby for completing their 100th parkrun."

For more information on parkrun, visit the run's website.