THE Mayor of Basildon will complete his 100th Parkrun this Saturday, as he hails the benefits of running.

Cllr David Dadds, who has been Mayor since May, has taken part in the popular Parkrun scheme for many years.

The scheme, which was established in London in 2004, brings together people across the world for a 5 kilometre run every Saturday morning. Over 6 million people have taken part in the free event so far.

Cllr Dadds, 49, is a keen runner, regularly running 10 mile routes around the Billericay countryside.

"I have been a Park run tourist, I have run in certain parts of Essex, Yorkshire on holiday, but my favourite run is my home run in Lake Meadows, Billericay.

"It's not about pace. It's about getting up on a Saturday morning, going to the park and meeting other like minded people. It's not a race - you can walk it, jog it or do a mix.

"You're getting active. Everyone's a winner when you finish. Don't get me wrong - sometimes I think: what on earth am I doing here? But it is always guaranteed that at the end, I've enjoyed it and got my Saturday running in.

"It's all about good mental health, good physical health and balancing that with hard work. I'm also conscious that other people do the parkrun for different reasons.

"You can go off into your own world sometimes when you run. You're thinking, you're pondering."

Parkrun founder Paul Sinton-Hewitt, 61, told Gateway 97.8: "Earning your 100 Parkrun milestone t-shirt is always a wonderful occasion.

"The persistence and effort required to reach this goal is significant and so everyone I know who gets there can be proud.

"I am always excited when this milestone is reached and it's the same for Mayor David Dadds.

"I'm certain that many folk in Basildon and beyond will feel encouraged to strive for their next milestone after seeing David's achievement. Congratulations David."

Anybody can take part in local Parkrun events by registering L]https://www.parkrun.org.uk/register [L+] here.[.L]