Norfolk Gazelles reach Parkrun milestone

Norfolk Gazelles have reached a notable milestone in the popular weekly runs held at Norwich's Eaton Park.

The club have been strong supporters of the Parkrun series ever since it was introduced and on Saturday morning they registered their 1,000 entry, with member Joseph Hawes marking the achievement by finishing second in a field of 350.

Five runners account for around a third of the Gazelles' impressive total of runs, with Graham Hardingham leading the way on 97, closely followed by Dave Barclay on 96.

Gail Hardingham (70), Richard Gilham (58) and Mel Derbyshire (50) are others who must now know Eaton Park's 5km circuit like the back of their hands.

Club chairman Brian Bromley is delighted the Parkrun venture has been such a big success in Norwich – and is pleased the Gazelles continue to support it in such large numbers.

'Everyone can get involved – you don't have to be registered with a club,' he said.

'It's a great way of keeping fit and there's a competitive edge there as well.

'We have been strong supporters since the start – and it was a proud moment when we recorded the 1,000th entry. Everyone enjoys taking part. It's a good challenge and a there's a strong social side to it as well.'

There are runs every Saturday morning at Eaton Park, weather permitting, starting at 9am.

There is no charge to enter but any new runners are required to register with the organisers beforehand. The Parkrun series started in London in 2004 and has now spread to all parts of the country.

For more information on the series visit www.parkrun.org.uk/ norwich

Meanwhile Norfolk Gazelles, who are holding their Valentines 10k on Sunday at Easton College (10.30am), are always on the look-out for new members.

Anyone interested in joining should visit www.norfolkgazelles.co.uk or turn up before one of the club's evening runs which start from the City Academy (the former Earlham School) on Monday evenings (6.15 for 6.30pm).