A RECORD breaking 371 people from all over North East Wales turned up to run the Erddig parkrun to help promote wellbeing and living healthily.

The run is part of the NHS 70th birthday celebrations and saw the highest number of runners Erddig parkrun has ever seen.

The initiative, known as 'parkrun for the NHS,' aims to recognise the contribution of the NHS to the health of the nation and inspire people to take part in physical activity and volunteering.

Erddig parkrun at Erddig National Trust, along with hundreds of parkruns around the UK agreed to host the special NHS birthday celebration event on June 9 and NHS staff and members of the public took part in the event.

Director of nursing for the East Area, Steve Forsyth said: “It’s so important to keep active which is why it’s great to see so many of our staff here with their families and friends, not only keeping healthy themselves, but also encouraging others to stay healthy too.

“We’d like to thank all the volunteers at parkrun for giving up their time to make it happen, it’s a really wonderful free event and it was fantastic to see so many people here running and enjoying the beautiful surroundings at Erddig parkrun.

“I ran in pyjamas to highlight the negative impact that staying in pyjamas can have on someone who is in hospital. It’s really important that just because someone is in hospital they shouldn’t feel that they should stay in bed.

“We know just 10 days of bed rest is the equivalent of 10 years muscle wastage, so we want people up and dressed to help promote their recovery and to keep all their daily living skills functioning independently.

“So if you're admitted to hospital don't forget your day clothes we want to see you on the road to recovery and getting up and about.”

Erddig parkrun co event director Alex Edwards said: "It’s lovely to see so many NHS staff walking, running, volunteering and simply receive a well-earned round of applause for the incredible contribution they make to our community.

"Erddig parkrun is a friendly, welcoming event that provides a perfect opportunity to get out in the fresh air to socialise and be physically active in a supportive environment and we encourage anyone to register and join in."

The 'parkrun for the NHS' initiative is being supported by Dame Kelly Holmes, a regular parkrunner who worked as a nursing assistant before going into the British Army and later becoming a full-time athlete, said: "Increased levels of activity leads to improved mood, self-esteem and a wide range of health benefits. I know from first-hand experience how sociable and welcoming parkruns are, so it's fantastic to see it join forces with the NHS in its 70th year to encourage even more people to get active in this special year."

Erddig parkrun is a free 5k event that takes place every Saturday morning at 9am.