WALK, you don’t have to run, is the message from organisers of Teignmouth’s popular Parkrun.

Since its launch in the resort six years ago, the 5k run has attracted just under 65,000 people taking part.

But the weekly Saturday morning event is now actively recruiting walkers for whom the benefits are equally positive.

Event director Paul Burgess says Teignmouth Parkrun has been an ‘amazing success’ and is actively encouraging walkers to join in.

He said: ‘Since we started, combined with spectators we estimate that 120,000 people have visited the sea front and been part of this amazing weekly event.

‘In addition to health and well being benefits the parkrun has a huge economic benefit too.

‘You don’t have to run to take part in Teignmouth parkrun and we are actively encouraging people of all ages and abilities to become ‘parkwalkers’.

To celebrate walking at Teignmouth, the organisers are aiming to have the most walkers ever take part in the event on Saturday April 26.

Paul said: ‘We’d love to see an increased number of walkers every week.’

Those already walking the course say they gain a lot of enjoyment as well as exercise.

Walker Becky Dawe explained: ‘Being a park walker is a fantastic way to help anyone getting into parkrun, making them feel welcome, chatting to them or just walking alongside them.

‘No one is ever last. It’s free, it’s friendly, it’s incredible and Parkrun really has helped changed my life.’

Colin Grant started to ParkWalk in 2023 as his wife had recently returned to running after breaking her wrist.

He said: ‘I am now on my 104th walk where many of these I have been a Parkwalker.

‘I find it so much fun to chat to other walkers as well as encourage them and some of the slower runners to finish.

‘Everyone has different stories to tell.

‘On a personal note, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and found that during radiotherapy and hormone treatment it also gave me something to focus on to encourage me to get the energy to get out in the fresh air on a Saturday, when often I didn’t really feel like going out.’

Paul added: ‘Walkers have always been welcome at Teignmouth parkrun, but alongside our headline partner Vitality we are elevating walking, encouraging more walkers than ever to join in with parkrun events.’

Everyone is welcome at Parkwalk, starts at the same time and walks the same 5k parkrun route, alongside runners and volunteers.

It is free, fun, and a great way to stay active.

There is no pressure to run and it is fine to go at whatever speed is comfortable while there is no time limit,

Every event has a volunteer tail walker who is always the last to finish.

For more information contact Paul Burgess (Event Director), telephone 07983325925, or email [email protected]