‘ABSOLUTE beginners’ are being encouraged to put on their trainers and try out a new programme at a popular running club.

The free Couch to 5k initiative has been launched by Barnton-based Razzer’s Runners to introduce people to the idea of running.

The programme is also aimed at building on the legacy of its founder, Roy ‘Razzer’ Clarke, who died in December, aged 74, and started the club in his late 30s.

“Our philosophy is that of our founder Roy, that anyone can run, regardless of their age, size, gender or previous athletic pedigree,” said club member Alan Wilcox.

“The atmosphere at the club is extremely informal, and thanks to its ideal location close to Marbury Park and surrounding countryside, members can choose their distance and terrain, as long as everyone gets back in time for a cuppa!

“We have absolute beginners who thought they would never be able to run, who after a few weeks of gentle gradual development can now run for 40 minutes.

“We also have a number of faster women and men who regularly enter and compete in races.

“There is always someone to run with at whatever pace suits, and it’s great that we are always making new friends.

“We have always welcomed absolute beginners, and recently launched our Couch to 5K programme, and are encouraging new people to come and try us out.

“The programme is aimed to get you started and to keep you motivated so running can become a regular activity for life, and is supported by RunEngland, the Government’s initiative to get people into running.

“So put your trainers on, some weather-appropriate gear and join us at our next weekday session, on Tuesdays or Thursdays at 5.50pm.”

Alan was keen to dispel a number of myths about running.

He said: “I have found no research to support the myth that running is bad for your knees, running can be hard but doesn’t have to be and it’s absolute rubbish to say that people can be the wrong shape to run.”

The club has four entrants in this year’s London Marathon, and has a series of events lined up, including a mixed ability team taking part in the Round Britain Relay this summer.

In memory of Roy all the club members are entering the local Whitley 10k race in April. Roy was one of the founders of the race in the 1980s.

Razzer’s Runners has 70 members, and meets at Barnton Football Club behind the memorial hall in Townfield Lane, Barnton.

Find the club at www.razzersrunners.org.uk, on facebook (Razzer’s Runners), and anyone interested in going along is asked to contact the club via the web site or call Alan on 07511 781350.