THE area’s newest running club officially launched last week, with its founder eager to promote social involvement, inclusion and having fun.

Ramsbottom Running Club has already attracted more than 25 members despite being in its infancy, and founder Rowan Ardill said he has been amazed by the way local people had taken to the club.

"The idea behind Ramsbottom Running Club is to encourage people to run a bit more often," he said.

"We are not here to do really hard slogs or to make people tear up and down big hills, unless they want to of course.

"The emphasis is more on meeting up with people – old friends and new – and having a smile on your face while you go for a run together."

Ramsbottom Running Club has already held a number of informal runs, starting at Irwell Works Brewery in Irwell Street, and Rowan has been buoyed by strong turnouts in its first few weeks.

"We wanted to start things small by initially just seeing who fancied joining me for a really informal run around the beautiful trails and routes we have on our doorstep," he said.

"Such has been the success of those early runs that we have now officially launched, but we want to make sure we continue to welcome everyone, new members and existing ones, and stay true to the idea of 'enjoying your run'.

"We have a mix of abilities and we are always able to make sure people feel comfortable, no matter their fitness level."

Runs are held every Tuesday, from 7pm, starting and ending at Irwell Works Brewery – with a social drink for those who want to rehydrate afterwards.

For more information, search Facebook for Ramsbottom Running Club or follow @RammyRunClub on Twitter.