DURING the Covid pandemic, like many people I have taken to running. 

It is a great way to improve your physical and mental well-being. 

I moved to Stroud in October to work for the SNJ - since moving I have come to love running in Stroud. 

The canal in Stroud - especially on a sunny day - is absolutely breath-taking. 

It is great to run past Swans and all manner of wonderful animals.  

The people in Stroud who also use the canal - cyclists, dog walkers, walkers, fellow runners - are always super friendly. 

Yesterday, I did a 15km route to Stonehouse and back. 

It was a gorgeous day. 

This morning, I have taken part in the Stratford Park Parkrun. 

It is the third Saturday in a row in which I have woken up early to put myself through the paces. 

I am not going to lie, it is a challenging run. 

In fact, by some distance it is the hardest parkrun I have ever done. 

But it is great to do, especially as people are so welcoming and friendly. 

You get to meet people from all walks of life, it has such a great community feel about it. 

It is also great to do just before visiting the wonderful farmer's market. 

I am looking forward to doing the Stonehouse parkrun soon. 

Now that the days are getting longer, I am going to keep running. 

I want to do the Stroud half-marathon in October. 

My next step? Joining the Stroud and District Athletic Club.