A DEDICATED runner marked his 500th parkrun in St Helens earlier this month, which was celebrated with one of the "biggest turnouts in years".

Getting "hooked" on parkruns around 12 years ago, James McGlynn has travelled the world running the 5k routes on 68 different courses.

Some of these parkruns have taken James and his wife to events in Ireland, Sweden, Australia, and America, although he has settled on the Victoria Park parkrun in recent years.

So after an incredible 12 year commitment, James reached his 500th parkrun on Saturday, November 4.

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St Helens Star: James has completed 68 different parkruns over a 12 year periodJames has completed 68 different parkruns over a 12 year period (Image: St Helens parkrun)
Speaking about his parkrun milestone, James, 73, said: "It was absolutely incredible the reception that I got on the day.

"I had people coming from the various other parkruns I have done, so I was told that it was one of the biggest attendances that they have had for years.

"They gave me a bib to mark the 500th run, and I brought some cakes and treats, so I was just overwhelmed with the response really."

St Helens Star: James said he will keep on running and has his sights on his 1000th eventJames said he will keep on running and has his sights on his 1000th event (Image: St Helens parkrun)
After getting more seriously into running in the late 90s, James has achieved further athletic milestones over the decades, including 10ks, half-marathons, and ten London marathons.

Now a dedicated parkrun attendee, James, who is based in Ashton-in-Makerfield, said that there is a great atmosphere at the parkruns, where he regularly meets people of all ages, abilities, and walks of life.

Not one to stop while he is ahead, James said that he will continue taking part in the weekly Victoria Park events, and even has his sights on his 1000th parkrun.