A TOTAL of 94 runners and walkers braved torrential rain to take part in south Ceredigion’s first-ever parkrun at Llanerchaeron.

The 5km event generated a wonderful atmosphere – Cardigan’s Mark Horsman was the first man home with Alix Arndt, of Talsarn, the first female.

Highest age-graded for the day was Lampeter’s Dawn Kenwright.

After the run everyone retired to Conti’s Café at Llanerchaeron visitor centre for much-deserved coffees and snacks.

Jen Caulkett, joint race director with George Eadon, said: “I decided to start the parkrun almost a year ago, and my husband Ken and I contacted Parkrun UK to ask about whether we could set up up in our local area, as the existing ones where too far to travel on a regular basis.

“I was contacted by Jane Thorogood, Parkrun ambassador, to discuss the procedure.

“We needed to raise £3,000 and then Parkrun UK would match this with the additional £3,000 required to set up and supply the equipment needed.

“I managed to get a grant from Run Wales, who offer parkrun funding, and Sarn Helen Running Club, Lampeter, kindly agreed to give the additional £1,500 required.

“However, we quickly realised we needed a defibrillator too as there was not one near enough to the proposed parkrun location.

“We started a crowdfunding page, which quickly grew and eventually with the amazing support of the community, we reached our target."

• The Llanerchaeron Parkrun will be held every Saturday at 9am. All runners and walkers, including those with buggies and children (under-11s must run with an adult) are welcomed although no dogs are allowed.

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