A VALE of Glamorgan MP and Welsh Conservatives are calling for the return of popular Parkrun events across Wales.

Thousands of people run, walk or jog in weekly Parkruns across the UK, and while England has allowed the events to return, Wales has not.

Calls have been mounting for Parkrun events to return with Vale of Glamorgan and Welsh Conservative MP Alun Cairns leading the calls.

MP Alun Cairns said:"As a regular runner at the Barry Island Parkrun event, I share the frustration felt by all that the Welsh Government have yet to allow them to return.

"In England, Parkrun events restarted two weeks ago and they have been a great success. I am strongly calling on the First Minister to allow Parkrun events to return as we know they form such a vital part of our physical and mental wellbeing, particularly for many in the Vale who run at Barry Island.

"With this being an outdoor event, we know the risk of Covid transmission is significantly reduced. The Welsh Government’s approach simply does not add up. I hope First Minister will employ common sense and allow the running community to get out there once again, enjoy this great activity and beat their 5K times"

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Welsh Conservative shadow minister for sport, Tom Giffard MS, said: "Parkruns are a great way for people to stay active and make new friends, which is exactly what we need after being in and out of lockdowns for the last 18 months.

"I fail to see why Labour ministers in Cardiff Bay are dragging their heels in getting Parkrun events up and running again, given they are held outside and restrictions are easing in other areas of society.

"This Welsh Labour Government needs to think about peoples’ health and wellbeing and allow people to start taking part in Parkrun again.

"Let’s hope Labour ministers listen to the ever-increasing calls, see sense, and give Parkrun events the greenlight to go-ahead."