A RECORD number of runners took part in Warrington Parkrun at the weekend.

In total, 539 residents turned out on Saturday morning for a 5k jaunt around Victoria Park – the highest number recorded in the four years since Warrington Parkrun was first started.

Finishing first out of the hundreds was Louisa Thompson, with a time of 19 minutes and eight seconds.

Former Mayor of Warrington Geoff Settle, who volunteers at Warrington Parkrun as an event marshal, said: “This is a brilliant event and one that I get a great deal of satisfaction from by marshalling.

“What I see in fast Parkrun participants is the determination and pleasure that I used to get when running well.

“However, it’s the beaming smiley faces at the back of the field that now give me the most pleasure.

“These people are working just as hard as I ever did, and thanks to the Parkrun are experiencing the satisfaction and benefits of improving their wellbeing whilst also developing new friendships.”

Established in January 2014, Warrington Parkrun will celebrate its fourth birthday at Victoria Park on Saturday, January 27, beginning at 9am.

For more information go to parkrun.org.uk.