Parkrun is set to return to the seafront this month, a decision which has been welcomed and supported by the leader of Worthing Borough Council.
The timed 5k, which takes place at 9am every Saturday morning on the prom, is extremely popular, with more than 500 people regularly taking part to boost their fitness and wellbeing.
Due to COVID, the event has not taken place since March 2020. But with rates low in the area and the government hopeful of lifting remaining restrictions next month, the Council is working closely with local organisers to ensure the event can return safely on June 26.
Cllr Daniel Humphreys, Leader of Worthing Borough Council, said: “Parkrun has been a massive success in Worthing in recent years, giving thousands of people a free opportunity to get fit in the fresh air while enjoying our fantastic seafront with friends.
"It also provides a boost to local businesses.
“For those reasons, when the government feels it is right to lift remaining COVID restrictions, we will be supporting organisers and the amazing team of volunteers to deliver a safe, fun and healthy run.
“At the moment we're working to the last weekend in June, which would mean Worthing will be among the first in the country to get up and running again. I know this will be extremely welcomed and an important step towards life after lockdown.”
Parkrun is just one of many ways the Council is supporting opportunities for residents to be fit and healthy.
Work on a programme of events to take place in the borough's parks this summer is underway while recent years have seen investment in new facilities, such as new playgrounds and the tennis courts at Homefield Park and Field Place.
The Council is also committed to developing its ongoing relationship with South Downs Leisure, who operate four extremely popular centres - Davison Leisure Centre, Splashpoint Leisure Centre, Field Place Manor House & Barns and Worthing Leisure Centre.
Cllr Sean McDonald, the Council's Executive Member for Health & Wellbeing, said:
“Our ongoing investment, fantastic partnerships with other organisations and an amazing number of committed volunteers means we have a fantastic leisure offer in Worthing. A large part of this is low-cost or free.
“So with the weather picking up and lockdown lifting, it's well worth people thinking of ways in which they can take proactive steps to improve their own health and wellbeing.”
Two men jailed in Crawley murder investigation
Those in Sussex with learning disabilities at risk of heart disease
WANTED: Connor Davis, 29, from Hayling Island
Police investigating serious collision in Three Bridges
South Downs Design Awards Back
Portsmouth's EV Charge Boost
AI Powered Speed Cameras Launched
Two Men Jailed for Running Drug Farm in Littlehampton
South Coast Sea Warning
On Air