ONLY the bravest battled the elements to take part in the inaugural parkrun at Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood on Saturday.

Some 400 people ran the 5k circular route with organiser Chris Archibold hailing the event a true success.

“Moors Valley is the perfect venue for parkrun. It offers the most idyllic setting with stunning views and a route that does not double back on itself."

Clare Gronow of Moors Valley said: “Parkrun is a grass-roots movement. The community has really pulled together to make this event happen.

“Experience from other parkruns shows that they quickly develop their own community and we are looking forward to the weekly runs becoming an integral part of the Moors Valley calendar."

Now the parkrun will be held at the park eery Saturday at 9am.

To help anyone interested in taking part, but who don’t feel quite ready for a 5km challenge a series of Beginners Running courses in the New Year.

For more information and details all events at Moors Valley go to www.moors-valley.co.uk.