A RUNNING group that has been bringing women together in Keynsham for more than a decade has been celebrating after the founder of its wider network was awarded an OBE.
Keynsham Ladies Run is part of the national This Woman Runs community, founded in Bristol by Mel Bound in 2014.
Mel was recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours for services to women’s community sport, acknowledging her work in helping thousands of women across the UK become more active and connected through running.
The Keynsham group is run by local volunteers (aka Run Angels) and meets twice a week all year round for social runs that are welcoming and inclusive.
Over the years, the group has attracted women from a wide range of backgrounds and fitness levels.
Some members are returning to exercise after a long break, while others had never considered themselves runners before joining as they were worried they were too slow or unfit to join a group. Most weeks around 20 women join the group for a run.
Sam Bell (Run Angel for Keynsham) said: “Chatting during our runs is just as important as the physical benefits, and it has been great to see our runners build friendships and confidence.
“Our focus is not on pace, distance or competition but a space where women can enjoy being outdoors together, get some headspace and not worry about being left behind. It was great to get together socially as well to celebrate Mel’s achievement together.”
The runs, which are free of charge, take place on Wednesdays at 7.30pm and Sundays at 8am. They typically involve 30 minutes of running at a conversational pace, with options available for those who need a walk-run approach and those who want to run a little longer too.
Sam said: “Those interested can have a look at our pages on Facebook or Instagram or just turn up at the meeting point near the bus stop on Ashton Way.
“There’s no requirement to book or make a regular commitment, which is great for those women juggling busy schedules.”
Pictured above, members of Keynsham Ladies Run out and about – and below, celebrating Mel Bound’s OBE at their social in July
