SWINDON'S two park runs are among more than 500 events across the UK which are now allowed to return on Saturday June 26.

The ParkRun UK group has worked with landowners around the country to receive permission for the free outdoor fitness events to be held on private green spaces.

A spokesman said: "We would like to place on record our thanks to the hundreds of landowners, directors of public health, the UK government, parliamentarians from across the political spectrum, the Local Government Association, Sport England, mayors, press and media, public figures, parkrun volunteers, and the wider parkrun community for their incredible efforts during what has undoubtedly been a difficult time.

"There is now a strong consensus from landowners and public health officials, right across the country, that the return of parkrun is vital as we look to improve our physical and mental health in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

"Following a careful review of the information available, we now have a high degree of confidence that, when events do return, they will be safe, enjoyable, and accessible for all those who wish to take part in social, outdoor, physical activity, with their local community.

The initiative is expected to issue another statement confirming the events' return after the government provides an update today on the next step of lockdown lifting.

The spokesman added: "This announcement may have a material impact on our ability to reopen on June 26. However, we now know that parkrun will return in England before too long."