Celebrating the people who together make Barnet
Together, we are Barnet will highlight some of our many groups and local projects, as well as individuals, who contribute so much to our community.
Eileen Rumble
Celebrating the people who together make Barnet
Together, we are Barnet will highlight some of our many groups and local projects, as well as individuals, who contribute so much to our community.
This week we're focusing on Eileen Rumble, founder of Friary Park junior parkrun, part of the nationwide network of parkruns that every Sunday encourage thousands of children aged 4-14 to keep fit and healthy for free.
“I started the Friary Park junior parkrun because my two children wanted to get involved but there wasn’t an organised run near us. Saracens Rugby Club generously donated the money we needed to buy the equipment to get us started. I went out and recruited a dozen volunteers to help, all parents of children who wanted to run. Friary Park’s bowls club also kindly granted us use of their facilities.
“Our first parkrun was in April 2018. Since then we have grown to have more than 100 children run every week, all supported by a committed group of 40 parents who volunteer their time. Because parkrun is free and open to all we have runners from all backgrounds and ages, as well as their families. It’s a healthy activity that’s brilliant for children’s fitness and wellbeing.
“The parkrun has really helped to knit the local community together. Children get to meet and socialise, and their parents volunteer to marshal the run and provide refreshments. They also use their time to litter pick in the park. I’m proud to say we are transforming lives and the community.”
Find out more about Eileen and how to get involved with our Together, we are Barnet campaign by visiting: www.engage.barnet.gov.uk/togetherbarnet