107 children took to the local cycle track this Sunday but no bikes were in sight. The route doubles as a 2km course for Odd Down Junior Parkrun and the tiny runners were there to get a personal best, start the day right, improve their fitness or just simply run for fun. Every single one of them gave their all and some of their parents joined in to support them and give a family feel to the event.

Mary and I were among 19 volunteers on the day to help things go smoothly. Our job as marshals was to keep an eye out for anyone in difficulties along the course - we were issued with whistles just in case - but also to cheer on the youngsters. Giant foam hands were deployed full time for high fives alongside many words of encouragement. It’s amazing how the prospect of hitting a marshal’s hand can give you a real turn of speed.

We noticed that one or two of the fastest children were absent and realised they were now too old for juniors - let’s hope they find a future in athletics and have been inspired by their Odd Down experience.

There are still plenty of familiar faces to look out for next time - with those foam hands at the ready.