PARKRUN events up and down the country are back this weekend for the first time since March 2020 - including Wyre Forest Parkrun - much to the delight of running fans.

The weekly community event takes place every Saturday morning in parks across Britain and has been the subject of constant pushback due to the Covid pandemic.

The free 5km runs were due to restart on Saturday June 5 before issues around accessing running spaces pushed their return to June 26.

It was then delayed again until July 24 after the government postponed the lifting of pandemic restrictions.

However, the date is finally set and Wyre Forest Parkrun, which meet at Wyre Forest Visitor Centre is raring to go.

Running director, Jo Watson said she has missed the community aspect of the race.

"I have missed the team so much and seeing all different people every week," said Jo.

"We have have children and elderly people who come and join in, with people running at different speeds.

"Those who master the 5k in 15 minutes usually hang on and support others over the finish line - it is a big community ethos.

"It is what I love about Parkrun - it is open to everyone"

Jo, who owns a running coaching business set up the event nearly six years ago with Andie Ford, who is the events director of the run.

Jo added: "We used to have around 300 runners before the Covid pandemic. I really don't know how many to expect this weekend, but it will easily be a couple  hundred as we are one of the more busier groups.

"We have had to change the route due to Copvid guidance to prevent people congregating at the finish line which probably means more people will want to join as we are offering a different route."

The Parkrun series was started in London in 2004 and has since become an international event.