Statement from local Directors of Public Health: Parkrun events return to North East

Following discussions with organisers and thorough reviews of risk assessments, we're pleased to be able to support the return of Parkrun events to the region.

Organisers have worked hard to put in place measures that keep attendees safe, and we're delighted that residents will once again be able to participate in these events and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits they offer.

We know it is much safer for people to be with others outdoors where the virus is less likely to spread, but we must urge participants to remain cautious at all times to protect themselves and others, particularly while our region continues to see a steady rise in Covid-19 cases.

We've worked with organisers to provide a consistent approach for our communities, with each location being assessed individually. All sites will have similar start times and set ups across the region so there is no need to make long journeys to different Parkrun sites. Please minimise travel and attend your nearest Parkrun event. You can find this by visiting www.parkrun.org.uk

How you get there is also important. The safest way remains to walk or cycle, but if you're driving then avoid sharing cars with people outside your household, and when using public transport, make sure you follow the vast safety measures operators have put in place.

Maintaining the Hands, Face, Space, Fresh Air guidance remains essential wherever you are, as does making sure you self-isolate and book a PCR test if you develop even the mildest symptoms of the virus.

If you feel at all unwell, please do not attend these or any other events. Even those without symptoms should make use of free Lateral Flow Device tests, twice a week where possible, to ensure people aren't spreading the virus without realising.

We all welcome the return of events that have been lost to the pandemic, but we still have a duty to stay safe, and minimise the further spread of the virus.

Wendy Burke, Director of Public Health, North Tyneside

Amanda Healy, Director Public Health, County Durham

Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health, Gateshead

Eugene Milne, Director of Public Health, Newcastle

Liz Morgan, Director of Public Health, Northumberland

Tom Hall, Director of Public Health, South Tyneside

Gerry Taylor, Director of Public Health, Sunderland