RUNNERS taking part in the second anniversary of Swindon Parkrun could be forgiven for looking as if they’d been dragged out of bed.

More than 200 people completed the 5k course at Lydiard Park in pyjamas on Saturday morning and recovered with cakes and soft drinks afterwards.

The timed run, which is free and open to people of all ages and abilities, started off with just 30 people back in 2010.

Volunteer co-ordinator Emma Creighton said: “People do feel a bit silly but we just wanted to mark the day by having some fun.

“It’s not as serious as people sometimes think activities like this can be, and it follows on from the 80s theme we had last year.

“We’ve had a brilliant turnout and it shows how far we’ve come, from 30 runners when we started up to 280 now.

“Our aim is to get up to 380. It’s quite an achievement considering Parkrun is run by volunteers."

Ian Reade, 47, an IT manager of Rodbourne, was one of the first home with his dogs Jet and Tia – who lost their pyjamas on the way round.

“It’s been amazing how the event has grown,” he said.

“It’s nice training for the dogs – they’re the ones who keep me going.

“It’s also nice to meet other runners as everyone is very friendly."

Parkrun takes place rain or shine at 9am every Saturday at the park, and the run is against the clock.

For more details email Emma or Michael Hunter on swindonoffice@parkrun.com