Parkrun to return to the North East

“Following discussions with organisers and thorough reviews of risk assessments, we’re pleased to be able to support the return of Parkrun events to the region. 

“Organisers have worked hard to put in place measures that keep attendees safe, and we’re delighted that residents will once again be able to participate in these events and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits they offer. 

“We know it is much safer for people to be with others outdoors where the virus is less likely to spread, but we must urge participants to remain cautious at all times to protect themselves and others, particularly while our region continues to see a steady rise in Covid-19 cases. 

“We’ve worked with organisers to provide a consistent approach for our communities, with each location being assessed individually. All sites will have similar start times and set ups across the region so there is no need to make long journeys to different Parkrun sites. Please minimise travel and attend your nearest Parkrun event. You can find this by visiting www.parkrun.org.uk  

“How you get there is also important. The safest way remains to walk or cycle, but if you’re driving then avoid sharing cars with people outside your household, and when using public transport, make sure you follow the vast safety measures operators have put in place. 

“Maintaining the Hands, Face, Space, Fresh Air guidance remains essential wherever you are, as does making sure you self-isolate and book a PCR test if you develop even the mildest symptoms of the virus. 

 “If you feel at all unwell, please do not attend these or any other events. Even those without symptoms should make use of free Lateral Flow Device tests, twice a week where possible, to ensure people aren’t spreading the virus without realising. 

 “We all welcome the return of events that have been lost to the pandemic, but we still have a duty to stay safe, and minimise the further spread of the virus.”  

Wendy Burke, Director of Public Health, North Tyneside 

Amanda Healy, Director Public Health, County Durham 

Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health, Gateshead 

Eugene Milne, Director of Public Health, Newcastle 

Liz Morgan, Director of Public Health, Northumberland 

Tom Hall, Director of Public Health, South Tyneside 

Gerry Taylor, Director of Public Health, Sunderland 

Newcastle City Council Leader looking forward to return of Newcastle Parkrun events

Commenting on the return of Newcastle’s Parkrun events, Newcastle City Council Leader Cllr Nick Forbes said: “As a keen Park-runner, I am absolutely delighted to announce the safe return of Newcastle's three Parkrun events on 26 June.  

"These outdoor 5kms events are really popular and are very well attended. They offer people of all ages and abilities the chance for some essential physical activity and to socialise with like-minded Geordies who enjoy the challenge every Saturday morning.  

"For many people, these small doses of normality will provide a huge boost to their health and wellbeing, chatting to people who they may not have seen since the start of the pandemic and forging new community relationships - whilst stretching their legs and enjoying some exercise.  

"I would like to thank Urban Green Newcastle, the organisers of the Parkrun and our Council staff for going the extra mile to review the set up and logistics of each run and to ensure their Covid compliance and safety.  

"If we all continue to do our bit, follow the guidance in full and get vaccinated when eligible, more and more of Newcastle's vibrant events can return in the coming weeks and months and our city can start to recover from the pandemic. 

“For the return of these Parkrun events, I can’t wait to get my trainers on and get back to my Saturday runs. Like many in the City, I’ve really missed them.”