HUNDREDS of people took part in a run to celebrate seven decades of the NHS, last weekend.

Chipping Sodbury parkrun – along with more than 300 parkruns across the country – joined NHS70 celebrations on Saturday, June 9 to mark 70 years of our National Health Service.

A total of 342 people took part in the event, which took place on the Ridings.

As well as recognising the NHS’s birthday, it is hoped that parkrun for the NHS will encourage new participants, including NHS staff, to get more involved in physical activity and volunteering.

Sonia Cross, the NHS run's director, said: "The atmosphere was warm and fun.

"In the run brief which the run directors give before the run, we gave a huge shout out to the NHS runners and the NHS 70th Birthday generally.

"This received huge cheers and applause from all.

"There were a number of groups who entered into the spirit of wearing their NHS scrubs (NHS employees) and a few who just dressed up.

"It was very warm to run, so especially warm for those wearing anything other than their usual running gear."