It may have been based on the most simple premise imaginable – but Parkrun is now busily transforming the lives of people who wouldn’t have dreamed of donning a pair of running shoes and hitting the streets, or the grass, without it.

Every Saturday morning, thousands of runners of all ages and abilities do just that, running 5km courses across the country in front of intrigued onlookers and growing hordes of volunteers who, like the runners themselves, are simply there as a result of their love for the sport.

There are now over 70,000 Parkrun events taking place in the UK on an annual basis, making it one of the biggest regular sports participation events in the country. And it’s doing more than simply keeping fit, it’s also offering kids and adults a priceless opportunity to embrace the power of sport.

One woman recently explained what Parkrun means to her son, who has learning difficulties.

“Both parkrun and running by himself have helped him to develop the social skills to be able to talk to people and not be afraid to ask for help,” she said. “His health and fitness are fantastic, and I am certain that’s because he wants to run.”