Cancer patients are being encouraged to join the regular parkruns at Lydiard and Marlborough.

The move is aimed at improving health and reducing isolation for them, their families and friends.

Michelle Taylor, who leads the personalised care team at the Great Western Hospital, explained: "After the pandemic we wanted to help set up some better support services for cancer patients who might feel isolated whilst also encouraging patients to move more and sit less - which research shows has huge health benefits - with a social and support element.

"Together with the charity 5k Your Way, we meet up once a month at two local park runs to encourage patients, friends and family to come along to run, walk, jog cheer or volunteer."

The meets are on the last Saturday of the month and the next, which is the first birthday of the project, is this weekend at Lydiard Park and on the south corner of Marlborough Common.

"Patients can do as much or as little of the course as they like, but it's very welcoming and we then have a cuppa and catch up afterwards."

The runners and walkers are supported by ambassadors.

"All our ambassadors are a combination of health care professionals and cancer patients and family," added Michelle.

All ages and abilities are welcomed and people taking part can do as much or as little as they want of the 5k distance. The starts are at 9am and it's free to take part.

The 5k Your Way community initiative is provided by Move Charity, which was started seven years ago by international athlete Gemma Hillier-Moses to give patients the support she did not have when she was diagnosed in 2012 with a rare form of lymphoma.

It is aimed at those living with and after cancer, their families and friends as well as people who work in cancer services because exercise helps to reduce cancer-related tiredness, improves psychological wellbeing and may cut the side-effects of treatment.

Other benefits include the chance to build friendships, improve confidence and reduce social isolation.

Anyone wanting to take part can find out more at 5kyourway.org and register.