Harrow Lodge staged its first 5km parkrun, with more than 100 entrants

Parkrun makes it Havering debut

Harrow Lodge Park played host to Havering’s first parkrun on Saturday, as 120 runners from 27 clubs braved the cold and mud.

The 5km route started close to the Warren Drive car park, with Danny Norman romping home in 18 minutes 48 seconds.

Caroline Tuck, from Dagenham 88 Runners, led the women’s field in a time of 24.14 and event director Dave Keeley, from Havering 90 Joggers, said: “We were thrilled with the turnout and the feedback from the runners, who all seemed to enjoy the run, even in tricky conditions.

“Given the soggy ground underfoot in the first section of the course it was a relief to see all runners, buggies and dogs emerge from the trees, guided round the route by our resolute band of marshals, many of who were provided by the club.

“Thanks to all the volunteers who took time to make the run’s launch such a success.”

The free event will take place every Saturday at 9am and is looking for more volunteers. If you can help email harrowlodgehelpers@parkrun.com

Results, men: Danny Norman 18.48; Billy Parker-Brown 19.38; Stewart Anderson 20.13. Women: Caroline Tuck 24.18; Amanda Jane Heslegrave 24.28; Amy Rose Baggs 24.28.