Success for new parkrun at Thorney Bay Beach
A brand-new parkrun at Thorney Bay Beach on Canvey Island has got off to a flying start, with an impressive turnout from both participants and volunteers.
The weekly 5k event, held at Thorney Bay welcomed hundreds of first-time runners, highlighting strong local interest and enthusiasm for the initiative from those new to running. Organisers say it was “fantastic” to see so many newcomers getting involved in the free, community-focused event.
In addition, more than 30 volunteers supported the launch, playing a vital role in ensuring the event ran smoothly and safely. Parkrun relies entirely on volunteers, and the high level of support reflects the community spirit behind the new event.
Audrey Morris, a volunteer whose hard work was instrumental in setting up the new event up said: “Getting our parkrun started has been a massive collaboration. I agreed to be part of bringing this to Canvey because I had seen the benefits it had brought to other places not only in terms of health and community. Parkrun has a huge following, people visit from outside places to do the parkrun, stay for a few hours to have a coffee and see how nice and friendly we are. They see our wonderful seafront and they go off and tell other friends about it.”
The Thorney Bay Beach parkrun has been made possible through close collaboration with Active Essex, Parkrun ambassadors, local volunteers and Castle Point Borough Council, helping to bring the popular national fitness initiative to Canvey Island.
Parkrun is open to everyone, whether you prefer to walk, jog or run the 5k course. Taking part is simple: participants just need to register online, print or save their personal barcode, and bring it along on the day.
After completing the course, runners and walkers receive a finishing token, which, along with their barcode, is scanned. Results are then published online within a few hours, including finish times and positions.
Organisers are encouraging more people to take part in future events and experience the benefits of being active outdoors while meeting others in the community. The run starts at 9am every Saturday.
Lee Monk, Relationship Manager at Active Essex said: “We’re delighted to see Canvey Island now has its own parkrun. It’s a brilliant example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships, and we’re especially grateful to the local volunteers who make it happen week in, week out. This initiative plays a vital role in supporting our shared ambition to create more opportunities for Canvey residents to be active and enjoy healthier, happier lives.”
Cllr Dave Blackwell, Leader of Castle Point Borough Council said: “This is a brilliant example of community spirit in action. It’s great to see so many people coming together to support something that promotes wellbeing, connection and pride in our seafront.”