RUNNERS in Middlesbrough wanting some help and extra motivation can join new community running groups from next week.

The sessions are free of charge and will help people get in shape for the 2014 races in the town – the Riverside 5k in June and the Tees Pride 10k in August.

Councillor Nicky Walker, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Environment, was on hand to launch the new running groups.

She said: “The Riverside Run and Tees Pride 10k are now recognised as among the best runs in the region, and attract thousands of runners to Middlesbrough from far and wide – and we want as many people as possible to feel able to take part.

“The Community Running Groups are open to all, and offer support, advice and training partners to help people prepare for the Runmiddlesbrough events.

“It’s a great opportunity to train alongside qualified coaches at any of the three following weekly sessions, and is just the incentive people need to get started and stick to a training schedule.”

The sessions are open to runners of all abilities, even to those who have never run before.

They run on: Tuesdays at 9.30am, first session April 1, at the Habinteg Community Centre, Cresswell Close, Hemlington; Wednesdays at 6.15pm, first session April 2, at the Habinteg Centre in Hemlington; Thursdays, 6pm, first session April 3, at the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum, Stewart Park, Middlesbrough.

For further information about the sessions or to register, contact Scott Hydon on 01642-515625 or email scott_hydon@middlesbrough.gov.uk

For further information, training plans and to sign up for the Runmiddlesbrough 2014 races, visit www.runmiddlesbrough.com