Halewood junior parkrun is hoping to welcome its biggest turnout yet this Sunday (15 November), as children and families across Merseyside are invited to take part in a special fundraising event for BBC Children in Need.
The Run Pudsey junior parkrun will take place at Halewood Park Triangle from 9am, with organisers aiming to attract more than 80 young participants to run, walk and raise money for the charity.
The event will mark the 91st Halewood junior parkrun, which has grown into a popular weekly activity for local families since launching in February 2025.
More than 3,000 children have completed the free 2km course since its introduction, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers who help make the event accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Race Director David Preece says the emphasis is firmly on participation rather than competition, with children of all ages and abilities encouraged to get involved.
David said:
“We want children to come along and have a go, without feeling that they have to be good at running or finish in a particular time.
“We have nine-year-olds who can get around the 2km course in a much quicker time, and four-year-olds who might take 20 minutes. Both are absolutely brilliant and are cheered and clapped the whole way.
“If we can get 80 kids on the start line, together they’ll cover 160km, the equivalent of almost four marathons.
“That’s a fantastic achievement for one Sunday morning, children running for other children, and a great way to raise much-needed funds for Children in Need.
“We have an incredibly dedicated team of volunteers. Usually between 20 and 25 people give up their Sunday morning to make the event happen.”
The flat 2km route at Halewood Park Triangle is designed to accommodate children of different abilities, with marshals positioned no more than 100 metres apart throughout the course.
A dedicated tail walker also ensures that every participant receives encouragement and support until they safely reach the finish line.
Organisers are hoping Sunday’s special BBC Children in Need event will introduce even more families to junior parkrun, while raising valuable funds for children and young people across the UK.
Donations will be welcomed on the day, while supporters unable to attend can contribute through the event’s official BBC Children in Need fundraising page.
David added:
“Word of mouth has always been our best advertisement, but this week we’d love to reach even more families.
“Ultimately, the goal is to come along, have a go, donate what you can and hopefully keep coming back. And that goes for the volunteers too!”
The organising team is also appealing for more adults to volunteer, with no previous experience required.
Sunday’s event will feature fancy dress, plenty of cheering and a lively atmosphere as volunteers encourage every child taking part.
Halewood junior parkrun takes place every Sunday at 9am and is free for children aged four to 14.
Children and volunteers simply need to register once through the official parkrun website and bring their barcode to the event. Children under 11 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
The start and finish line is located next to the Triangle Cafe and Bistro at Halewood Park, which will be open for hot drinks and breakfast.
Families are encouraged to come along, support BBC Children in Need and help Halewood junior parkrun achieve its biggest turnout yet.
