PEOPLE in Teignbridge are being encouraged to kick-start the New Year with a boost to their wellbeing as Parkruns are inviting everyone to join in.

The Bring A Friend initiative on the weekend of January 10 and 11 is aimed at sharing the inclusive, social and free experience.

Haldon Forest is one of the Parkruns joining in the weekend.

A spokesman said: ‘The potential benefits are endless, with recent research showing that 79per cent of parkrunners reported an improvement to their happiness, increasing to 86per cent for those that volunteer with parkrun - reinforcing the positive impact parkrun can have on both physical and mental health.

‘So many people discover parkrun because someone they know invited them or recommended it to them.

‘My friend took me on a Christmas Day more than eight years ago best thing a friend could do.

‘I have met so many amazing kind people - I no longer run but in 2025 I managed to volunteer 69 times between 5k and juniors events. I never see it as giving because I get so much from it.’

Parkrun is suitable for all ages and abilities for running, walking or volunteering.

The spokesman added: ‘Bringing a friend not only helps grow our community, it helps people feel instantly welcome, and in the longer-term helps them connect with others and rediscover the joy of being active.’

All events are free and held every Saturday morning and people can walk or run a 5k or 2k route or support their community as volunteers, spectators or to socialise.

There is no time limit and nobody finishes last, thanks to volunteer ‘tail walkers’ who provide support and encouragement on the course.

Haldon Forest is one of more than 850 Parkruns across the country with more than 250,000 people taking part. .