An after-dark community run comes to Platt Fields Park this week

A moonlit community run which aims to empower women and girls to stay active and enjoy outdoor exercise through the winter months comes to Platt Fields Park this week.

Organised by Manchester Parks in partnership with the running community, the welcoming and inclusive event is not just for experienced runners but for people just getting started and who are looking to become more active, helping them connect with local walking or running groups.

The event offers a chance to meet local run clubs, find new running partners and pick up tips to run safely through the darker months. Taking place on Thu 22 Oct from 6pm-9pm, the event is open to all genders and abilities, but organisers hope that it will be particularly helpful to women who might not feel safe running as the early nights set in.

The first event earlier this year saw 210 people take part to complete a 3k run or walk around the park in a series of waves. Some of the more experienced runners even completed all seven waves and bagged themselves a half marathon.

The format will be similar this month, with guided runs led by local clubs with several running/jogging waves of a 3k route around the park. Free head torches will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees are also encouraged to wear lights and fluorescent clothing.

A small event village will have stalls with representatives from fitness groups, community safety organisations, and charities, and there will be food and drink vendors and music.

Holly Spiers, Race Director and from the Slow Run Club, a club which focuses on creating a welcoming space for beginners and slower runners, said: “The club was formed out of my love for running and community.  I’d attended so many clubs and events but always felt left behind or completely out of breath.

“I noticed a gap for runners who were just starting out or needed a space to run slower than what was currently on offer at other clubs.  Today we run across 3 different locations in Manchester, offering a 3km and 6km option with rest stops along the route so everyone can make it round comfortably.  We’re not about pace or competition, just moving your body and being social.

“Our collaboration with Manchester Parks is focused on helping women feel safer when they are out running. Providing a space for runners to connect with each other and clubs, so they don’t have to run solo, which can be a key factor into why so many women feel unsafe when running.”