Norfolk town hosts first Parkrun after months of planning

Dereham's inaugural event was held on Saturday, with more than 150 runners taking to the 5km course.

It became the 23rd Parkrun in Norfolk, and follows in the trail of smaller towns like Watton and Swaffham, which already have one.

The informal run was completed by over 150 runners. (Image: Ian Edwards)
Dereham's run started at the town's football club where there were more than 30 volunteers marking the course.

The quickest around the course was Ashley Gilbert, in 18:02, and the fastest woman was Memphis Symonds, who finished in 22:10. The average time was 31:38.

Thirty volunteers helped to ensure the runners completed the course safely. (Image: Ian Edwards)
Alison Webb, Breckland councillor for Neatherd ward, began the process of setting up the run nine months ago.

She said there had been a few hurdles to clear along the way.

"We needed to find somewhere to agree for the car parking and the toilets, which is mandatory for Parkruns," Mrs Webb said.

Other challenges included finding suitable terrain for the route and to secure funding, which Breckland Council is understood to have helped with.

"When I asked Dereham Town Council last October whether they would allow a Parkrun across Dereham Neatherd, I was so excited it would be a possibility," Mrs Webb said.

The event aims to bring together people from all works of life to encourage fitness and outdoor activity. (Image: Ian Edwards)
"This is a positive outcome for Dereham and the amount of support that has been shown is honestly mind blowing." 

"Thank you to the Parkrun officials, Dr Simon Carroll, Dereham Town Council, Breckland Council, Norfolk County Council, Dereham runners, Dereham Football Club and all the amazing volunteers."

To participate in the event, you need to be registered online and must bring a scannable barcode to record your results.