Alton Water parkrun is a fun and friendly community event for families and individuals to enjoy a walk or run of 5km by the reservoir every Saturday morning – completely free of charge.  

For those arriving by car, the usual parking fee is generously discounted for participants thanks to Anglian Water.

Every week at 9am around 60 or so people – supported by about 10 volunteers who make the event happen – enjoy the camaraderie of the event. Whether they are running and looking to improve their time or enjoying a stroll, perhaps with children or even a dog, there's nothing better after the event than a hot drink and cake and a catch up with friends in the café.

The event was set up in November 2021 by a group of local volunteers. But to keep going, it needs more helpers. All the volunteer roles are very easy and full training is given. In addition the volunteers are able to park completely free of charge thanks to parkun's arrangement with Anglian Water who own the park. Volunteers are welcome whether they would like to help every week, once a month or just on an 'as and when' basis.

Jen Wright lives in Holbrook and has tried several of the volunteer roles on offer.  

She said: "The volunteer roles in the finish area are very rewarding because you get to see that sense of achievement as participants cross the line whether you are handing out the finish tokens or scanning their barcode to record their finishing place. It's also great to be a marshal and cheer people on as they pass you, while making sure they are taking the right course too."

All that is required of helpers is that they register their details with parkrun first - this also allows them to take part in the event should they wish to. To find out more - or to try volunteering one Saturday morning please contact the team by email at [email protected].  

There's also more information on the Alton Water parkrun Facebook page.