A popular fixture in the parkrun calendar, runners were out jingling merrily on Christmas morning, a mere 2 days after the previous event, looking to burn some calories before likely gaining a few extra later in the day.
A small number were enjoying the festivities elsewhere in the UK. Tara Hipwood was once again at Riverfront in Newport, Holly Porter in Leicestershire at Market Bosworth, and David Lydall at the familiar haunt of Poole in Dorset, where he was one of a staggering 1324 runners!
Back in the north east, it was fantastic to see new mother Catherine Young return to parkrun for the first time in 8 months, stepping out at Herrington Country Park with baby Sophia.
The Town Moor was off, having failed to corral enough volunteers, which saw numbers near enough triple at both Jesmond Dene and Leazes. Luke Woodend was marshaling at the former, but sixteen of us ran and walked the latter, spurred on by Cath’s cowbell.
Despite some drizzle midway through the run, there was plenty of Christmas spirit in evidence, with elves, reindeers and Christmas trees amongst the masses. Many Claremonters made it the usual festive family affair, turning up with various relatives, and Mungai managed to incorporate his official photographer role into his run, with some guerilla snapshots. The longer, alternative course still being in use ensured PB’s were thin on the ground, but a party atmosphere pervaded throughout.
Shout out to Izzy and Tom, for bringing delicious homemade mince pies and caramel shortbread respectively!
