SUNDAY was “graduation day” for the latest group of runners to complete a keep-fit course run by village hall officials.
Some 28 runners jogged their way around the grounds of Raby Castle as the culmination for their Couch to 5k programme, based at Staindrop’s Scarth Hall.
It was the third group of Couch to 5k runners to have successfully completed the course – with the next sessions starting in September.
Coach Les Blair said: “Each class is different. The last one had about 12 in the group. This was 28, with the oldest 71.”
Friends Claire Priestley and Anna Newrick said there was much more to the class than simply turning up to run three times a week.
“It gets you out every week, you make new friends and running as a group keeps you motivated,” said Claire.
“Les has been a very good coach, starting off slowly and gradually building up to 5k.”
While Claire had done some running in the past, Anna said she was a “complete novice” but both agreed that by following the programme through 5k was achievable for anyone.
“We doubted we could do 5k at the start,” said Anna.
“But it builds up and as long as you stick to the programme you can do it. Everybody who started it has achieved it.
“Just go for it – the benefits and the community spirit are great.”
The next Scarth Hall Couch to 5k programme begins on Sunday, September 8.
It is a nine-week course with participants expected to attend three sessions a week.
For more details, contact the Scarth Hall – email scarthhall@gmail.com or go to scarthhall.co.uk.
