JUST over six months since its inception, Ramsbottom Running Club took its next step in the local running scene with a strong presence sporting their new club kit for the first time at last weekend’s parkrun event in Bolton.

The membership, which is nearing 100, also donned club colours at the Manchester Marathon the following day.

Saturday’s free 5k parkrun at Leverhulme Park also formed the third event in the club’s championship.

In total, 33 members ran the event and a specially-branded gazebo, funded by Bury Council’s Township Forum and decked out in the club colours, greeted them at the finish line.

Club chairman Rowan Ardill said: "To see a field full of Ramsbottom Running Club kit was very special and even more pleasing given that many of the people who are now members of the club started, or rediscovered, their own running journey at Bolton parkrun.

"It has been a brilliant first six months for the club and the support of so many enthusiastic people has made all the work worthwhile.

"We had a bit of a wait to get our hands on the new club colours, but we had a lot of compliments on it – it certainly stands out!"

Club members Paul Jenkins and Andrew Norman both completed the Manchester Marathon course, while club welfare and new runners officer Dawn Evans ran the Milan marathon.

While club members have been taking part in a number of races around the area in the last few weeks, with times and positions recorded for their inaugural club championship, membership secretary Darren Evan said it was not all about racing.

"We have a wide array of runners with an equally diverse range of motivations – some are social, some are about fitness and some want to get better, faster or stronger as runners," he said.

"What we do have in common is a desire to get together and be encouraging, supportive and welcoming as a club, regardless of the reason for joining.

"We welcome all new members and look forward to seeing the club grow even more."

Training 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.