A trio of Welsh commonwealth stars and a BBC weather presenter came to Blaenau Gwent to celebrate the NHS’s anniversary at a popular weekend run.

Though the Parkrun is a regular fixture for plenty of people looking to keep fit, this weekend’s event was a special one as runners across Britain celebrated the NHS as part of the build-up to its 70^th birthday next month.

Blaenau Gwent was no exception, with the Parc Bryn Bach runners – many in NHS-themed fancy dress – getting to test their times against commonwealth competitors Bethan Davies (20k race walk Bronze, 2018), Tom Marshall (1,500m, 2018) and Adam Bitchell (10,000m, 2014).

Speaking after the event, Adam Bitchell said it was absolutely brilliant to see the turnout at the park and how the events are going from strength to strength.

“I’ve never been up here before but it’s a nice, nice course. I’m involved a lot in Run Wales and there’s been a real boost in social running – a prime example of that is the couch to 5K”, he said.

“We all need to realise running can have such a big impact on our health these days, mental and physical.”

Sue Charles, the BBC Wales weather presenter, also popped down to lend her support to the event and, alongside local MP and Bryn Bach Park runner Nick Smith, congratulate everyone for helping to champion an institution born in the borough.

“For a weather anorak like me it’s fascinating because this is where the weather station is based and they often get the coldest temperatures in Wales here”, she said.

“I’m just thrilled to be invited here today, to the honorary birthplace of the NHS and help encourage people to get active”.