A TOTAL of 142 runners representing 19 different running clubs took part in Weymouth’s annual Parkrun, and celebrated the first anniversary of the run with 37 personal best (PB) times.

Out on the course, regular front runner Fergus Johnson led the field home in 17mins 32secs, in front of Tom Carter (18:08), and Graham Sherwin (18:17).

Flora Johnson led the females to the finish line in 22mins 10secs, closely followed by Frances Anderson (22:18), and Madeleine Johnson (22:32).

In preparation for the event, Richard Orme made an excellent course map with distance markers and approximate time splits to aid the pace-setters.

John Murrell, doing his 95th Parkrun, kindly agreed to be the day’s ragga. His 14-year-old son Tom finished fourth overall and secured a new PB.

Pat and Rob Halstead from Dartford both produced PBs on their third visit on the less undulating course.

Previous visitors Sue and Fred Fox from Yeovil also achieved PBs, as did Simon Mitchell and Charlotte Fry, who encouraged first-timer Becky Wren to take part.

As well as Wren, there were a total of 16 first-time Parkrunners and quite a few turned out in fancy dress in a beach party theme.

At the finish, race director Michael Wilkinson made a floral presentation to Weymouth Park-run instigator Lindsay Hole and before the race commenced, Brian Fields collected the men’s annual prize for most points accumulated in participating and volunteering.

Lindsay Diment was the recipient of the female prize, but was not able to attend on the day to accept her award.

Weymouth Parkrun’s Michelle Kennedy said: “It was great to be part of a celebratory first anniversary occasion with almost record numbers of high- spirited runners, and definitely record numbers of valued volunteers.”