PONTYPOOL Parkrun has selected its runner of the month, based on commitment, improvement and persistence.

Shelagh Adkins, 67, will receive a free pair of Sweatshop trainers.

Dimitri Vorres, Pontypool Parkrun director, said: "Shelagh is a great inspiration and example of what parkrun is all about. Shelagh is well known to the running community being an experienced runner of many years. She has fully embraced the parkrun concept and supported the Pontypool parkrun from the start, regularly running and volunteering, always with a smile and words of encouragement to her fellow parkrunners."

Ms Adkins said she was honoured to receive the prize.

"The whole concept of parkrun is amazing," she added. You are met with lots of friendly (and some only half awake) people all eager for the run to start.The event is for everyone whether running, jogging or walking and the good thing is you will never be last because there is a ‘tail-runner’ coming along behind.

"I am 67 and appear in the 65 – 69 group. I hope that being an older runner I help to inspire both younger and older people to join in. Parkrun's certainly give me lots of pleasure and encourages me to continue running."

"There is also the opportunity to volunteer at the weekly runs. There wouldn’t be a parkrun without the volunteers. It makes a nice change to watch the race, cheer people on and give something back to this free event."

Pontypool Parkrun is held every Saturday at 9am. The free 5k is aimed at all abilities and ages. Just sign up at parkrun.org.uk and bring your printed barcode.

This Saturday runners are invited to dress up 'Welsh' to celebrate St David's Day.