GREAT Run Local event co-ordinator Deborah Cliff believes a recent spike in the number of participants is proof local schemes to promote healthy living are working.

There has been a new record turnout set at the 2k and 5k runs at Burrs Park in three of the past four weeks.

The previous best of 145, set at the Super Santa Dash last December, was broken on the final Sunday in April, when 148 people took part.

That number jumped to 166 in the first run of the month and peaked at an impressive 208 on May 14.

"I expect a lot of people have been finishing off their preparations for the Great Manchester Run, which takes place on Sunday," said Deborah.

"The Great Run Local is the baby brother of the Great Manchester Run so there is a good link-up there on the website.

"But that still does not fully explain why the numbers have been shooting up of late.

"I think there are probably lots of reasons, but a big factor has been the couch to 5k sessions being run in Bury, in conjunction with the I Will If You Campaign.

"All participants have been encouraged to use the weekly run at Burrs as part of their course and I think a lot of them are coming to the end of their cycles."

GRL Burrs started in January 2015.

Throughout its first year the weekly run averaged 60 runners.

Similar to the national parkrun scheme, GRL Burrs is timed, so runners can track their progress.

"People can compete in a family-friendly environment alongside others," added Deborah.

"We meet every Sunday near the caravan park entrance at 9.30am.

"It is completely free offering both 2k and 5k options for all ages and abilities – children, dogs and buggies are all welcome."

All results and times are recorded via free wristbands that runners can obtain by visiting www.greatrunlocal.org

Every run is organised and marshalled by a team of volunteers led by Deborah.

Updates about the Burrs run can be found on its Facebook page www.facebook.com/GRLBurrs/