Clumber Park Runners - the birth of a legend

Given the increasing popularity of Parkrun and running nationally, it was decided to launch a social running group for all ages and abilities, focused on fun, community and increasing fitness. And just like that, Clumber Park Runners was born.

Clumber Park Runners is entirely volunteer led, with volunteers completing the England Athletics (EA) Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF) qualification.

How it all started

Clumber Park Runners started in 2015 with a handful of social runners meeting on a Wednesday morning. Over the years, it has grown into a group which regularly exceeds 40 runners each week. There have been many celebrated personal achievements since it began with first-time 5k’s, London Marathons and one member being selected to represent England women in the UK Backyard Ultra Championships.

However, these achievements would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the volunteer run leaders who provide a friendly face and plenty of encouragement. Simon, Deb, Julie and Brenda describe their involvement as leaders of the group, and what Clumber Park Runners means to them.

Simon and Deb Booth’s Story

“We moved to the area in March 2017 after deciding to give up work and have a complete lifestyle change. We didn’t know anyone in the area, but both enjoyed running so started to do a local Parkrun and came to Clumber Park. We discovered it had its own running group with a more casual approach to its sessions, and it instantly appealed to us.

It didn’t take long to make new friends and feel included, and we were soon asked to become leaders and take the group forward.

Through Covid, and with the power of social media, we kept the group going by setting weekly challenges like finding things during runs that began with a letter of the alphabet. We even held a weekly online quiz. We soon realised what the group meant to people and couldn’t wait for us all to get back together in the park.

No matter your pace, your age or your ability, everyone is welcome, and everyone loves the camaraderie.”

Julie Carroll’s Story

“I first saw a Facebook post in October 2015 for a beginners run group at Clumber Park. I’d run a 5k Race for Life a few years before, but my husband’s job meant evening exercise sessions were difficult to manage. A run group during school hours worked perfectly for me.

In late 2017, the run leader suggested I did the LiRF (Leadership in Running Fitness) course. A little out of my comfort zone and with a few nerves, I finally did it the following February. 3 days later, I led my first Clumber Runners session.

I'm not the fastest runner but I enjoy encouraging and supporting my fellow runners, and love to see the progress they make. The group is open to all; new runners, those returning from injury and all ages and all abilities. The session is fun while being beneficial to improving people’s running ability.

I can't imagine my life without Clumber Park Runners now, seeing so many familiar faces and welcoming new ones. I’ve met some wonderful people and made some lifelong friends, it's the highlight of my week.”

Brenda King’s Story

“After retiring from full time work, I was looking for a group to run with during the day after a few falls whilst running with the local harriers at night. I discovered running late in life and I’m never going to run a marathon, but at 74 I’m still capable of finishing a 10k race.

A friend told me about Clumber Park runners, and I never looked back. It’s an inclusive, supportive group and I’ve made so many friends. Wednesday mornings are a focus for the week.

After Covid, I was asked to become a run leader and have been given the chance to be creative in helping make the group’s activities more interesting. To stand at the back of Parkrun watching the runners warm up with exercises I have introduced, it’s magic!”

Join the group

If you'd like to get involved, get in touch through the Clumber Park Runners website here