RESIDENTS have been encouraged to lace up their running shoes and get active with the return of couch to 5k.

The fun and informal running group is aimed at complete beginners of all ages and will start from Thursday, June 7 at Malvern Town Football Club at 10.30am to 11.15am.

At a cost of £20 per person, the 10 to 12 week programme has been set up by Malvern Hills District Council with the aim of helping to build confidence, stamina, fitness and well-being, as well as being social.

Participants will run together every week with the support of group leaders and will be asked to complete two homework runs.

By the end of the 12 weeks, participants will be able to successfully run their first Park Run together and will receive a medal at the finish line.

Couch to 5k is a national running programme designed to get people off the couch to gradually work up to running five kilometres in just 12 weeks.

Rachel Vann, physical activity and well-being officer for Malvern Hills District Council, said: “We have had a lot of success with our Couch to 5k programme in the past, it is a great chance for people who might not have done any running before to build confidence and improve their health, whilst making new friends.

“As running leader, I will be on hand with our other volunteers to provide training, advice and support throughout the programme.”

To book a place, email getactive@malvernhills.gov.uk