Jesmond Dene’s weekly Parkrun has become one of Jesmond’s biggest community fitness events – with the group closing in on 300 members.

Every Saturday morning, about 270 runners and 30 volunteers gather on the Red Walk. Most finish the 5K route in around 25 minutes, while others choose to walk or jog at their own pace.

Parkrun began in London’s Bushy Park in 2004. What started with just 13 runners has grown into more than 1,200 weekly events across the UK, all free and volunteer-led.

Jesmond Dene’s event began in 2019 with help from Newcastle City Council, local running clubs, and nearby businesses. Since then, the free 5K has become part of Jesmond’s weekend routine.

Event director Ross Waterston told JesmondLocal the Parkrun’s success is built on strong community backing and relies not only on those directly involved in Parkrun but also on the support of other park users.

Maintaining strong relationships with runners, as well as with local organisations such as the North East Marathon Club, David Gray Solicitors, Procter & Gamble and the Wingrove Motor Company, has been vital to its success.

According to Waterston, Jesmond Dene was chosen because it’s scenic, free from events that might clash with Parkrun, and home to a farmers market that benefits both sides. Volunteers arrive from 8am to set up cones, test timing equipment, and check the course before the 9am start.

“Set-up takes about an hour,” he said. “Everyone knows their job, and teamwork keeps things running smoothly.”

Run director Gina Ince explained that the 5K route is divided into marshal points. Volunteers stand along the course to guide runners, ensure safety, and cheer everyone on. In addition, a tail walker in an orange vest makes sure no one is left behind. As a result, the event suits runners of all abilities.

While Parkrun values inclusivity, safety rules mean dogs are not allowed on the Jesmond Dene course. The narrow and winding paths make it unsafe. “We’d love to welcome dogs, but safety has to come first,” Waterston said. Even so, dog owners can still volunteer and bring their pets along.

One regular volunteer, a third-year Newcastle University student who asked not to be named, said flexibility is a major benefit. “You can volunteer whenever you’re free. It’s a nice way to meet people outside university,” she said.

Moreover, that sense of community continues online. Volunteer David Tait demonstrated the official Parkrun app, which tracks every runner’s progress and volunteering record. The app awards points, milestone T-shirts, and even offers fun challenges like the “Alphabet Challenge”, where runners complete Parkruns starting with different letters. “It’s simple and keeps you coming back,” he said.

Finally, a UK government-backed study found that joining Parkrun boosts fitness and wellbeing. It also helps people feel more connected to their communities. Regulars at Jesmond Dene agree. “For many of us, it’s about health, friendship, and belonging,” one runner said.

Jesmond Dene Parkrun takes place every Saturday morning at 9am and is free and open to the public. Register at parkrun.org.uk.