HARLOW parkrun celebrated its seventh birthday on Saturday.

The 5k challenge through the town park first took place on November 8th, 2014 when 154 participants took part.

Since then 5,988 individuals have taken part in 301 separate runnings of the run which is very much seen as less of a race and more of a personal challenge.

Saturday’s run saw 178 take part.

But these are statistics. More importantly are the human stories that have emerged over the seven years.

The courses (both winter and summer) have developed a character all of their own. From Roy’s Hill. Coatrack Corner, V-Turn and Brooks Bridge.

Friends have passed (we remember Darren Fazackerly and Spencer Brooks to name just two) but there has also been marriage proposals (Gary and Debra) plus a few wedding bell runs (Anna and Michael).

But most of all there have been friendships. It may only be a hello at 0854 on Saturday morning or a wave as they lap you (again) but there is a real camaraderie.

The run would not take place without the help of the hardy volunteers. A few weeks ago, it was pouring down with rain but every volunteer had an encouraging smile on their face.

There are also the race directors that do all the hard yard tasks behind the scenes.

Thank you to all those who make parkrun what it is.