Parkrun returns to Essex

Runners have been urged to maintain social distancing and take a weekly LFD test as Essex County Council welcomes return of Parkrun to Essex.

Parkrun is set to return to Essex County Council’s country parks and to other sites run by partner councils.

Parkruns will take place at the following Essex Country Parks from 26 June or as soon as possible after that date: Cudmore Grove, Great Notley, Hadleigh, Marsh Farm and Weald.

Dr Mike Gogarty, the Council’s Director of Wellbeing, Public Health & Communities, said:

“We recognise the importance of as many people as possible getting involved in physical activity and the very beneficial role Parkrun plays in achieving this aim.

“It is important to remember that as we get back to normality the Covid-19 virus is still with us and while we are keen people enjoy Parkrun, this needs to be done in a way that is as safe as possible.

“Parkrun is about being healthy and we want to keep people healthy. With this in mind, I would ask runners to consider taking an LFD test before participating each week. This would be helpful.

“Maintaining the ‘Hands, Face, Space’ and fresh air guidance remains essential wherever you are, as does making sure you self-isolate and book a PCR test if you develop even the mildest symptoms of the virus.

“If you feel at all unwell, please do not attend these or any other events. Even those without symptoms should make use of free Lateral Flow Device tests, twice a week where possible, to ensure people aren’t spreading the virus without realising.”

Cllr John Spence, ECC Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said:

“Since the easing of restrictions last month we’ve all enjoyed being able to do more of the things we’ve missed and I know the return of Parkrun is keenly anticipated by many adults and younger people. It is so important that we continue to take sensible precautions so that we do not compromise our new freedom.

“Now is not the time to be complacent; we will only be able to manage Covid-19 by everyone continuing to play their part, following the guidance, self-testing regularly and taking up the vaccine when invited to. By everyone following the rules, we can keep Covid-19 in check, together.”

For any changes to the usual running of the Essex Country Park Parkruns check the official Parkrun channels and our website here: https://www.explore-essex.com/events which will be updated as soon as possible over the next week/ prior to the events going live.Guidance for getting home LFD tests in Essex can be found here – https://www.essex.gov.uk/getting-tested-for-covid-19/if-you-dont-have-symptoms