Durham Freemasons have proudly supported the launch of the new weekly Elemore Park Parkrun, which held its first event on Saturday 15 November at Elemore Park in Hetton-le-Hole, despite the tail end of storm Claudia threatening to dampen the proceedings.
The event, fully funded by the Durham Freemasons Charity, welcomed runners, joggers, walkers and volunteers from across the region. It marks the next chapter of Durham Freemasons championing the health and well-being benefits of the global parkrun movement, continuing their long-standing commitment to helping communities stay active and connected.
The £5,000 funding provided by the Durham Freemasons Charity covers the full cost of establishing the event as part of the international parkrun network. This includes the one-off start-up cost, which ensures each event is supported indefinitely. The funding also includes the provision of a life-saving defibrillator, helping to make Elemore Park Parkrun a safe and sustainable community event for years to come.
Building on the success of previous Freemason-supported Parkruns, the new event continues the legacy started by the Durham Freemasons Parkrun Group, founded by Duncan Maw to bring together Freemasons, families and friends through participation in local and international Parkruns.
Martin Rankin, Assistant Head of Durham Freemasons and Chair of the Durham Freemasons Charity, said:
“I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve been able to bring a brand-new parkrun to East Durham, fully funded by Durham Freemasons. This is another fantastic opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to come together in a spirit of fun and friendship. Elemore Park is the perfect setting, and it’s been wonderful to see such an enthusiastic turnout. This really captures what Freemasonry in the community is all about.”
Duncan Maw, Provincial Grand Almoner and Group Coordinator, shared:
“What began as a small idea to bring members, families and friends together for a Saturday morning run has grown into something much bigger. With the encouragement and support of the Head of Durham Freemasons, John Watts, that early idea has evolved into a thriving movement that brings people together through health, friendship and shared community spirit. When we launched the first Freemasons parkrun initiatives, our aim was to encourage connection, activity and inclusivity across our communities. Seeing the Elemore Park Parkrun come to life shows how that vision continues to grow. It’s a wonderful example of what can happen when Freemasons and local people work together to create something lasting and positive.”
Following the run, participants, volunteers and supporters gathered for refreshments and conversation, reflecting the friendly and inclusive community spirit that lies at the heart of every parkrun and of Freemasonry’s values of fellowship and service.
The Elemore Park Parkrun will now take place every Saturday at 9:00 am and is free, open to everyone, and supported by a dedicated team of local volunteers.
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