PARKRUN events across the North-East are set to return in June. 

Following the publication of the Government’s roadmap for exiting lockdown, Parkrun UK has announced plans to restart both junior and 5k Parkrun events across England.

Parkrun, which launched in 2004, puts on free 5km running events every weekend across the UK, which are attended by thousands.

The much-loved events, held across County Durham, Teesside and Tyne and Wear, came to a halt after the announcement of the first coronavirus lockdown in March 2020.

But now organisers are hopeful races can soon go-ahead with the easing of lockdown. 

Junior Parkrun events across England will be able to return from Sunday, April 11, while all 5k runs will be back from June 5. 

Sharing the news on social media, Durham Parkrun wrote: "Great news parkrunners, Parkrun UK have set a date for the return of our favourite Saturday morning activity!!! Put June the 5th in your diary and we'll see you all then" 

Based on the published guidance, 5k events could technically return from Saturday, April 4, but due to the other restrictions, infection rates and a number of events regularly exceeding 1,000 runners, the organisation does not want to restart earlier.

In a statement on the Parkrun UK website, chief executive Nick Pearson said: "Our experience from the autumn also demonstrated that in the absence of other, similar, events taking place, it is difficult to generate the level of support and permissions required to return. We therefore don’t think it would be fair or appropriate to attempt to return too early.

"Bringing back Parkrun events is a huge step for so many of us toward the return of normal life. Of course nothing is guaranteed and there is still, understandably, some uncertainty and trepidation within the community. But working towards these dates gives us all hope."

There will be a phased approach to the junior race, with some youngsters missing out on the junior park run in efforts to reduce participants. 

Over the coming weeks Parkrun UK will hold a number of question and answer sessions through its social channels, with updates delivered via its blog and weekly newsletters.

The Government's roadmap for England states that from March 29, formally organised outdoor sports – for adults and under 18s – can restart and will not be subject to gathering limits, but should be compliant with guidance issued by national governing bodies.