HUNDREDS of people gathered in Lydiard Park on a bright and brisk Wednesday morning to kick off the decade with a head-start on their healthy New Year’s resolutions.

The parkrun has been a Saturday staple at the park for almost 10 years but this special edition attracted joggers, walkers and runners from far and wide Many of the 483 who completed the 5k course want to get fitter and healthier in 2020.

The Woolley family from Cheltenham – mum and dad Jon and Jane with young daughters Ellis and Heidi – joined the Lydiard run for the first time.

Jane said: “We weren’t really runners but started doing a junior parkrun with Ellis and then decided to try different ones around the county.

“It’s a great family activity and we really enjoy it, it’s friendly and safe for the kids and it’s good to get out in the fresh air. This was the start of our support for RED (Run Every Day) January for Mind.”

Darren Newman cycled over from Marlborough in a bid to beat his personal best.

He said: “I’ve been parkrunning for just over a year and I’m trying to take it more seriously now. I never used to run at all but now I attend every one as a runner or volunteer, and I’m glad I did.

“I’m passionate about promoting the health benefits of running and of veganism.”

First-timers and parkrun regulars warmed up, set their stopwatches and chatted before the run began then enjoyed two long laps around the park while a few family members, volunteers and dog-walkers looked on.

It was the 250th milestone parkrun for Phil Jeffries, who also organises the new parkrun at Seven Fields.

He said: “There was quite a lot of new people there who wanted to get themselves fit and active.

“This is always a great way to start the new year off – it was my second of the day – as I’d also done one in Wokingham a couple of hours before this started.

“It’s good to see people trying to get fit and an inclusive event like this does a lot of good for their physical and mental health. You can come along, meet people, have a chat, have a few laughs and enjoy some exercise at your own pace.

“The aim of all parkruns is to build a welcoming feeling of community.”

Olivia Reed oversees the organisation of the New Year parkrun with a large team of volunteers.

She said: “I’ve done this for a long time and always make sure this is how I start the year. I love it.”