A popular running event which launched in Whinlatter at the weekend has been hailed a success by organisers.

An impressive 140 people put on their running shoes to take part in the first official Parkrun at Whinlatter Forest.

The launch event saw 21 people who have never joined a Parkrun before take to the course.

Sonia Dryden, event director, said: "It was fantastic to see so many people come along to support our launch event.

"The volunteer team who have stepped forward to help have been incredible and quite simply the event could not run without them – they are brilliant.

"I must also thank Adam Campion and the team at Keswick parkrun for all the support they have provided over the last few months in making this happen, as well as Sarah Hamilton, our Parkrun ambassador for all her wonderful guidance.

"We are very much looking forward to the event settling into the Parkrun family and welcome anyone to come along and join us to run, jog or walk our 5K route."

The weekly 5K runs, which are open to all, are planned to help people get outdoors and socialise while staying fit.

Organisers say the event offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy the beautiful park and get physically active.

The Whinlatter course offers the opportunity to take on one of the hilliest parkrun courses in the country.

With 210 metres of ascent, the route is challenging but also rewarding, with stunning views of Derwentwater, Keswick and the surrounding Lake District landscape.

There are already successful Parkrun events held in Keswick and Workington.

Parkrun Whinlatter Forest takes place every Saturday at 9am.

Participants must register online before their first run and bring a printed copy of their barcode in order to receive their time at the end.

They are also encouraged to grab a post-Parkrun coffee at Siskins Café, in Whinlatter Forest, where they can chat to other runners and be a part of this new running community.

For more information, or to register, visit www.parkrun.org.uk/whinlatterforest