It's always nice when a new parkrun appears on the scene and Valentine's weekend provided just that for runners in Tayside & Angus with the launch of a 5K course at Forfar Loch.

There were some pretty good numbers for a first time event with 188 participants and 23 volunteers all playing their part in a successful inaugural outing. First home was Jamie Kinghorn in 19:05 while first female was Julie Atkinson in 21:13.

STV were even in attendance to interview members of the organisation team as well as the runners, and there was also a special appearance from Baxter the Bridie (Forfar Athletic FC mascot).

The scenic, flat course involves one full lap of Forfar Loch with an additional small loop one third of the way round. The all important post-parkrun coffee comes courtesy of Strathmore Rugby Club.

Speaking after the run, organisers said: "After three years in the planning we are delighted to announce that the inaugural Forfar Loch parkrun ran smoothly and had a fantastic turnout.

"The first event allowed us to thank everyone who helped make parkrun happen and some of them were able to attend and support us. All of our funders who kindly donated money to us to reach our startup fund is not only greatly appreciated but shows that they recognise the importance of parkruns in the community.

"Thanks to Angus Alive for giving us permission to use Forfar Loch Country Park, they also did a tremendous job to get the trees cleared after recent storms. Special thanks must go to Strathmore Rugby Club who have been amazing and supported us from initial conversations, they have been so accommodating as well as providing hot drinks for runners at the end of each parkrun."

"We were absolutely delighted with the feedback from runners and volunteers and they loved the cakes that we received from our parkrun ambassador and other parkrunners."

If you'd like to know more visit the parkrun website, or the Forfar Loch parkrun Facebook page.

Image: Forfar Loch parkrun