Plan to bring Parkrun to Dereham gather pace

The mid Norfolk town with a population of more than 20,000 is the largest centre in Norfolk without at least one of the popular events, which see people from all walks of life gather for an informal Saturday morning 5km run. 

Alison Webb, a Breckland district councillor, said she raised the idea of launching a Dereham Parkrun at a town council meeting on October 10.

Councillor Alison Webb (Image: Breckland Council)Mrs Webb said the run could be held at Neatherd Moor following planned improvements to the running track there. 

She said the town council backed the idea, as long as it was properly organised. 

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Mrs Webb said a Dereham Parkrun would help people keep fit, stay social and boost local businesses. 

She said: “I am aware that many residents are keen to have the opportunity to use this beautiful community facility and Parkruns are an excellent way of keeping fit whilst meeting new friends.

“I also believe that a Parkrun would encourage visitors to come to Dereham which can benefit our local shops.

A Parkrun in Gorleston. There is now a plan to bring the popular event to Dereham (Image: Tim Hirst)"As this idea is at an early stage, I would appreciate feedback from the community on their thoughts as without local support, the parkrun will not be a success.”

There are 17 Parkruns in Norfolk, including at the village hall in Lingwood, Nicholas Hammond Academy in Swaffham, Loch Neaton in Watton and at the UEA playing fields in Colney Lane, Norwich. 

There are several others in the city as well as events in Thetford, King's Lynn and Great Yarmouth, making Dereham the largest place in the county not to have one.   

To have your say on the plans, email alison.webb@breckland.gov.uk.