A brand new celebration of running will be staged in Scotland next month (5-11 June), organised by Athletics Trust Scotland (ATS) - National Running Week will celebrate the positive impact that running and athletics has while raising funds to support disadvantaged communities across Scotland.

The initiative will focus on raising much needed funds for the Transforming Lives Project, which will give the most disadvantaged people in Scotland the opportunity to improve their social, physical and mental wellbeing by deploying community leaders in the most underrepresented areas in athletics and also distributing a grant fund to these communities.

Research shows that people who live in poverty, have a disability or are in ethnically and culturally diverse communities, are significantly underrepresented in running and athletics. As part of National Running Week (NRW), organisers want the athletics and running community to come together and support this mission to improve the lives of the most disadvantaged.

You can play your part by participating in National Running Week activities. Organisers say: "This is your chance to celebrate the impact that running and athletics has on your life, and help those who currently can’t participate.

"Our challenge during National Running Week for you is simple. We want you to assemble your club mates or work colleagues and walk, jog, run or push (a running buggy or wheelchair) a total distance of 5K at any point during the week.

"Organise a club or jogscotland 5K challenge, set up a 5K challenge at work, meet your neighbouring club or jogscotland group for a mob match at your local parkrun. Organise your own unique challenge - walk, jog, run or push every day of NRW!

"We’ll be looking for the very best and most imaginative examples of participation during the week, and we can’t wait to see what you do!"

When you participate, organisers ask that you make a donation to help Athletics Trust Scotland’s Transforming Lives campaign. For those who raise more than £50, there’s a special, limited edition neckwarmer, which
will be sent out after the challenge.

If you'd like to know more visit the Athletics Trust Scotland website.

Image: Athletics Trust Scotland Facebook