LOCAL running club Chorlton Runners are supporting the community by tackling mental health issues with running.

Recent years have seen a huge spike in the awareness of mental health in the UK after alarming figures, especially in Salford and Greater Manchester, show just how many of us suffer from mental health issues.

It is a well publicised fact that physical exercise is one of the key elements to a healthy and happy, body and mind.

Last year England Athletics set up a new campaign called #runandtalk with the aim of helping local communities to support each other through mental health problems by running.

Chorlton Runners involvement in #runandtalk

As one of the biggest running clubs in the Manchester area, Chorlton Runners have a variety of athletes in their ranks and are known for their friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Back in October, Chorlton Runners held a #runandtalk event.

Quays News spoke to one of the organisers Leona Beaumont to find out more about the campaign:

“We hosted the event as part of an England Athletics initiative that is aimed at encouraging people to run and talk to improve their well being and help break down the stigma associated with mental health problems. I helped organise the event alongside a number of other Mental Health Ambassadors within Chorlton Runners.”

Leona went on to say how successful the October event was:

“The event went well, a number of local people came along and participated in either a one or two mile run. Coffee and cake were provided after the run along with information on mental health and the opportunity to chat – whether about themselves, running or the quality of the cakes! Feedback after the event was really positive with people asking straight away when the next event will be held.”

Leona also told us the reason why Chorlton Runners in particular decided to get involved in the #runandtalk campaign:

“Being known as Manchester’s friendliest running club, it was natural for us to want to support the initiative and our local community. Our team of Mental Health Ambassadors are passionate about promoting the emotional as well as physical benefits of being part of a running club.”

The event, held at Chorlton Water Park was clearly a huge success. A date and time has already been confirmed for the next #runandtalk event:

“Our next event will be at 10:30am on 28 January 2018 and will take place at Chorlton Water Park. There will be more information about the event posted on our club website shortly but anyone who would like to attend should email me at: lfb-mha@outlook.com

Getting to Chorlton Water Park from Salford

Chorlton Runners are one of the closest running clubs to the Salford area.

Anybody can take part in the event on the 28th January, but if you can’t wait till then Chorlton Runners host a club run every Sunday morning with a variety of speeds and distances available.

If you’d like to find out more about Chorlton Runners and stay up to date with their upcoming #runandtalk event then follow this link.

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