One of the directors of Parkrun and Farnham resident Jodie Sikkel is working to establish a regular run at what she considers the "perfect" venue - Farnham Park.
She has, however, encountered unexpected opposition, with some residents raising concerns about potential traffic and parking issues.
The nearest Parkrun to Farnham is at Alice Holt Forest, approximately five miles from the town centre, making it less accessible for those who rely on public transport to participate.
Jodie believes that hosting a Parkrun at Farnham Park would provide a valuable opportunity for people of all ages to get outdoors, stay active, and socialise.
Jodie said: “I was a bit surprised when I came to Farnham and realised there was no Parkrun in Farnham Park. The process is quite simplistic once you find a piece of land and the owner is happy with you using it.
“It was similar when I lived Henley-on-Thames and set up the Parkrun there. It gets people out volunteering, it brings money to local businesses as they get coffees, breakfast and lunch after the run.
“People are pushing me to find other locations as people are concerned about the amount of car parking spaces at the park. We have several car parking locations in the town centre and the train station is walking distance from the park.
“I’m very mindful of when you set up something new in the community you want to make everyone happy. So I’m taking people’s concerns seriously. These were mainly around things such as traffic, parking and those kind of things.”
Parkrun events are free, community-based 5-kilometre runs held every Saturday morning, organised by volunteers who ensure participants stay safe and on-course. After being launched in London in 2004, there are currently more than 2,500 Parkruns around the world.
