Anyone who knows me, knows my love for Parkrun. Every weekend, runners, walkers and volunteers gather together in local parks in the name of a free, timed 5k event. It is a space for young and old to forget their worries and to be a part of something positive through movement and community.

Following the loss of my beautiful, crazy, funny brother Daniel in 2021 - parkrun has provided me with a positive space to navigate my grief. Dan and I would run together, him pacing me and dragging me round to get PB’s. He always strived to get the best out of people and delighted in others’ achievements. Every time I turn up on a Saturday morning with my Dad or Osh, (Mam when she can get up) he's there with us.

Life can be hard, its fast, stressful and full of challenges. We need to prioritise mental health. Evidence shows that participating in community-based running and walking events can improve physical and mental health, fitness and happiness. Parkrun is a great way to meet people from all walks of life and all age groups. Everyone is welcome at parkrun; you don't have to be fast, you don't have to have special equipment, you don't have to run, you just turn up. Those connections on a Saturday morning are really really important and help us feel a sense of belonging.

I'm raising funds for Parkrun in honour of Daniel; to raise its profile, to keep if free and to hopefully establish new events in those areas it has yet to reach. Community and connection.

Thanks for reading and wish me luck :)

Angharad xxx