Tuesday 7 June 2011

The Big Fun Runners’ summer

The UK’s Big Fun Runs series is back on again this summer from 6th August in Liverpool and will run until 29th October in Glasgow. Two cities included in the series are Derby 5k and Manchester 5k. Here are some details regarding those venues:

Derby 5k Run: The run starts and finishes alongside the River Derwent not far from the Rowing Club.  With 80 acres of parkland the course visits every corner of the park as well as running through its interior.  A mixture of grades of paths and with some elevation to climb the course is still very enjoyable with views of Derby as well as the mixed woodland that grows throughout the park. Please note that the route may be subject to change.

The start/finish area is located in a clearing at the south end of Darley Park a short distance from the Rowing Club. This can be accessed via the entrance on Darley Grove.  Nearby is the bridge crossing that allows access from across River Derwent.  The start/finish area will be indicated by a large inflatable archway. Also, there is no parking or vehicle access within Darley Park. There is limited parking available off North Road next to the footbridge and surroundings areas. Otherwise you may have to walk 10-15 minutes to the starting area so plan your journey accordingly. Pedestrian access is available via all entrances.   Runners are encouraged to consider public transport or car sharing.

Manchester 5k Run: starts and finishes in front of Wythenshawe Hall. After starting on tarmac, the course proceeds for a section on grass to reach the path that leads through Gibbs Lane. After a section on tarmac on the south side of the park, the route loops around the playing fields on grass, coming out at the rear of the athletics track. After a lap of the athletics track the runners return on tarmac to cut through to the rear of Wythenshawe Hall for the return to the start/finish area.

The start/finish area is located in front of Wythenshawe Hall and is a short distance from the parking area. The start/finish area will be indicated by a large inflatable archway. Car parking will be available in a designated area on a first come basis. Cars should enter from the North Gate on Wythenshawe Road.  There is parking charge for parking in the Park. Pedestrian access is available via all entrances. Runners are encouraged to consider public transport or car sharing.

The Big Fun Runs is  series of  Fun Runs being staged across the UK. To get more information on Derby 5k, Manchester 5k and Scotland 5k visit our site http://www.bigfunrun.com/