Hereford celebrates 500th Parkrun

Organisers of a Hereford Parkrun are set for a double celebration on New Year's Day as they enter 2026 by holding their 500th event.

Jonathan Edwards, event director of the run, described the occasion as a "special one" and encouraged people to come along to Hereford Leisure Centre.

Speaking to BBC Hereford & Worcester, he said: "I think it's become a tradition to kick off the new year with a run, walk or jog rather than perhaps lying in bed.

"Whether you start on New Year's Day run or another day in the year, once you do one you'll want to do another one."

The group's New Year's Day run will start of 09:00 GMT with regular Saturday runs set for the same time and location throughout 2026.

"We get a lot of regulars meeting up, a lot of the Parkrun community will come together," Mr Edwards said.

"You start to meet new people, new friends and you get involved in that running community.

"It is a little bit of an addiction, if you like. You want to come back each week and it's the best way to start any Saturday."

He added: "And when we get the bonus ones, like at Christmas, it's a little treat for everyone involved.

"I think 2026 is the year to say, 'I'm a Parkrunner'."

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