THE Chippenham Harriers Beginners course celebrated its tenth year of encouraging people to lace up their boots for the first time with a graduation ceremony at Chippenham park run this weekend.

Dozens of runners from this term's course completed their final 5k run at Monkton Park on Saturday, surrounded by the coaches, leaders and volunteers who had empowered them to take part over the last nine weeks.

Nicola Todd, who has been the beginners co-ordinator since 2015, said: “In the first week of each beginners course, we see a very nervous bunch come through the door. Over the following nine weeks not only do we see their fitness improve, but also confidence grow and lifelong friendships made.

"The course is run by volunteers from across the club who give their time and encouragement week after week.”

The course is split into three ability groups to encourage those who have never run, those who want to get back into running and those returning to running after a break, to get back on track.

The amount of runners signing up each term meant that a youth team was also set up by the Harriers and the leaders hope the club's resounding success will encourage more runners to come forward.

Leader Liz Barnett said: “I was dragged along reluctantly to my first session, and here I am four and a half years later. The Harriers keep me going, from the faster runners who encourage me, to the beginners who remind me of why I started running in the first place, and everyone in between.”

Kelly Wariner added: “I’m inspired by everyone who gives it a try, regardless of ability or age. Seeing new runners complete their first 5k run reminds me of the potential running has for bringing people together and encouraging them to challenge themselves and achieve something they didn’t think possible.”

The next course will take place in 2018 and will cost £10 or £2 per week. For more information visit www.chippenhamharriers.co.uk/beginners.