Scarborough has joined the UK parkrun community with the launch of Woodlands parkrun, which now takes place every Saturday morning along the scenic Cinder Track.

The course, based on the former Scarborough-Whitby railway line, offers an out-and-back route run entirely on permanent paths, with a short diversion on the outward leg before turning at Newby Farm Road.

Speaking about the course, organisers say: "It is a fast, fairly flat route up the track bed from Scarborough to a turnaround near Scalby. There is a sneaky diversion off the path back into the finish, with a very short but sharp uphill. Much of the route is under fabulous canopies of trees, providing shelter on hotter days."

The inaugural run on 28 June drew an impressive 319 participants, including locals, visitors in town for Armed Forces Day, holidaymakers and a few seasoned parkrun tourists. A full team of over 30 volunteers helped ensure everything ran smoothly as Scarborough’s first dedicated parkrun got off to a flying start.

Gregan Clarkson was the first male finisher at the debut event in 17:18, while Sophie Mowatt led the women’s field in 19:34. Since then, participation has remained high, with 296 finishers at the most recent event and a course record time of 16:03 set by Mark Hill on 5 July. The event has already attracted club runners from across Yorkshire and East Lancashire, as well as a few from further afield.

Each week post run coffee is enjoyed at nearby cafes on Falsgrave Road or at the local Sainsbury’s, continuing the friendly, social vibe that parkrun is known for.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Woodlands parkrun website.

Image: Woodlands parkrun Facebook