NORTHWICH Running Club (NRC) members are out to prove that running is good for the mind as well as the body at this week’s parkrun.

The club is hosting a #runandtalk event in conjunction with the event this weekend, encouraging participants to open up and help break down the stigma associated with mental health.

A joint venture between England Athletics and mental health charity Mind, #runandtalk asks people to sign up for a run while chatting with friends, family, colleagues or fellow runners.

As well as getting people talking about mental health, it aims to raise awareness and support those in need through physical activity.

The Northwich parkrun 5k event takes place at 9am this Saturday, July 21, at Carey Park.

Volunteers from NRC are driven to help by their own experiences of mental health, either personally or through close friends and family.

Adella Webbscott, NRC member and organiser of the event, said: “Northwich Running Club is proud to support this event for the local community.

“Mental health is something that’s close to my heart as well as many other people I’ve met since joining NRC.

“Many of us don’t take time out of our usual, and often hectic, day-to-day life to give ourselves space to talk about how we are feeling.

“We hope to provide some space and freedom to come and get what you need from this event, whether it’s walking, running, talking or maybe just a coffee and chat afterwards.”

Runners will also be joined by Phil Thomas, England Athletics Mental Health ambassador.

He said: “For me, events like this Run and Talk give people permission to be more open about their emotional wellbeing.

“It's my hope that it helps to further break down the stigma surrounding mental health.”

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