Every parkrun in Kent and across the world have been cancelled due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The news broke just before 9am on Wednesday morning and had been largely expected to give organisers enough time to spread the word ahead of Saturday’s events.

Today’s news will also affect all of the junior parkrun events that take place across Kent on Sunday mornings.

A statement from parkrun reads:

“We’re writing to let you know that, in line with public health advice, we have taken the decision to close all parkrun events across the United Kingdom with immediate effect. Initially, this closure will be in place until the end of March, however this is largely to bring all parkrun countries into the same time frame and we very much expect closures to continue through April at least.”

“Going forward we will update parkrunners regularly and aim to communicate important information as soon as is appropriate.”

“We know that this message may be a difficult one for you to receive, and many people will be wondering what to do without their regular weekly catch-up. Please rest assured that we are working hard to develop our strategy so that we are able to support the health and happiness of parkrunners around the world during this difficult time.”

“Remaining active is incredibly important, and we are working on ways to encourage and support that, however please do not arrange group gatherings at your parkrun venues whilst parkrun events are suspended.”

“Thanks for your continued support, and please know that the parkrun family is there for you.”

The latest public health advice is that we should all be keeping active and healthy as best as possible, with individuals urged to walk, jog or run on their own if feasible.