MELKSHAM parkrun, a free weekly 5k run, is searching for more volunteers to help keep the activity running with roles available such as marshalling, timers, scanners and more.
Melksham parkrun said, “We start at 9am every Saturday by the Adventure Centre in King George V park.
“It takes approximately 20+ volunteers for this event to happen each week, without them we simply cannot run. Our volunteer roles include marshalling at certain spots around the course, timing the runners, scanning runners’ barcodes etc, all roles are easy to do once shown how!
“We have been running for 8 months now and it has a real friendly/family atmosphere. We run a cafe in the cricket pavilion as well, where we offer free refreshments and a chance for everyone to have a chat etc.
“This event is not just for runners, it’s a chance for everyone of all ages and abilities to get out in the fresh air, grab some exercise and make new friends.
“We ask our volunteers to arrive 8.30am where they are shown which role/spot they are in and they are usually finished and free to go by 10am but of course are more than welcome to stay and enjoy the cafe!
“Volunteers are not committed to every week, you can help out whenever you choose. If this is something you are interested in please contact our volunteer coordinator by emailing melk shamhelpers@parkrun.com
“A little extra incentive for you, after volunteering 25 times you can claim a free (just p&p to pay) parkrun volunteer’s T-shirt!”
Saturday’s parkrun
A warm and sunny Saturday morning saw over 130 people take part in the 33rd parkrun here in our King George V Park.
“It’s hard to believe but even after 8 successful months, over 30 of these were first-timers. Forest Fitness were out in force and a regular contingent from Devizes Running Club joined us too. Visitors from Ipswich, Fareham, Eastbourne and Shepton Mallet all commented on what a great course we have here and on the warm and supportive welcome they received.
“Melksham’s parkrun, like others all over the world, is run totally by volunteers and on Saturday, 29 gave their time to ensure another great event. It’s open to everyone regardless of ability and is absolutely free. Google ‘Melksham parkrun’ to find out more and click on the ‘Volunteer’ tab if you want to try your hand at helping everyone have a lot of fun. School holidays are always challenging for obvious reasons, so you will be especially welcome at the moment! There won’t be a parkrun on Saturday 1st September as the annual Food and River Festival takes over the park for the weekend, but we’ll have a presence for the whole weekend in the fenced triangle at the end of the Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) by the school. where we’ll be running a parkrun information event for anyone to drop in and discuss anything parkrun-related or explain what it’s all about. We’ll be running a continuous slideshow of photos from our events on a big screen and there will be volunteers on hand to answer questions and even help you to register and print and laminate your barcodes!”
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