WESTBURY Leigh Primary School launched its new running initiative on Monday, October 3 in a bid to promote healthy lifestyles at the school.

In an attempt to increase participation levels, pupils are being encouraged to attend Southwick Parkrun on Saturday mornings with their parents to run the free 5km event which is organised by volunteers.

Friday has become ‘Running Day’ at the school, where all pupils take part in a 600m run around the school playing field once a month.

PE coordinator Luke Oakes said: “We launched the initiative this weekend with 10 members of staff attending Parkrun including some first timers.

“The plan is to now encourage more pupils to attend as a result of a strong staff presence – especially on the final Saturday of each month which coincides with the junior 2km timed run.

“We have also seen evidence of ‘Running Day’ being a success in other schools and feel it will be a great addition to what we already provide our pupils.”

Southwick Parkrun takes place every Saturday morning at 9am at Southwick Country Park and is free to enter, but runners must register before their first run.

Parkrun is a worldwide organised run with over two million registered runners.

Visit www.parkrun.org.uk/southwickcountrypark for more details and to register.