ONE of Middlesbrough’s most popular sporting events celebrates its first birthday this weekend.

The Albert Park parkrun was launched on May 31 last year when 26 runners turned out to take part in the inaugural free 5km time trial.

The weekly event has proved a huge hit with joggers, keep-fit enthusiasts and serious runners and recently hosted a record field of 143 entrants.

There are now 14 parkrun events around the country every Saturday and are open to people of any age and ability.

Times, photos and news are posted on the website at www.albert.parkrun.com on the same day.

Since the Albert Park parkrun started 526 runners have completed the event 3,148 times, including an impressive 931 personal bests - covering a distance of 15,740km.

Race Director Andy Fisher said: "The Albert parkrun has been literally a runaway success.

"It’s great to see so many faces turning out every Saturday, along with new runners at every event.

"There’s always a great atmosphere and a huge thank you has to go to the volunteers without whose help it simply wouldn’t be possible."

Councillor Brenda Thompson, Middlesbrough Council’s executive member for public health and sport, said: "It’s a great way to get your weekend off to a flying start and I’m delighted to see so many people taking up the running challenge and getting more active in the process."

To take part, register at www.register.parkrun.com