A new Facebook site where Derby runners can share information about safe routes and possible concerns has been set up by Derby North MP Amanda Solloway.
The RunSafe Derbyshire site was launched in response to a virtual roundtable held by Ms Solloway MP with members of local running groups to discuss how safe they feel on Derby’s streets and what steps can be taken to protect them.
There were a broad range of participants in the discussion, from competitive and experienced runners to novices who started running during lockdown.
A number of notable local running groups were also represented, including Derwent Runners, Chesapeake Road Runners and Shelton Striders.
The safety of local running routes, the importance of well-lit areas and CCTV were among the topics discussed. Amanda Solloway has written off to Derby City Council to raise these points.
The meeting was held following an incident last month where a young female runner was assaulted along the canal path between Chellaston and Swarkestone Lock.
RunSafe Derbyshire will provide runners with an effective platform to advise other members on safe routes and share positive experiences across the local area.
Jules Nicholson, a member of Chesapeake Road Runners who took part in the forum, said: "It was good to be involved in an event set up to look at the
fears and concerns that female runners in the city share and it was very worthwhile discussing the ideas that were raised during the meeting.
"Everybody, female and male, can benefit through running so anything that the wider running community, including all of Derby's clubs, can do to help each other stay safe will ensure that more people can get out into the streets and enjoy themselves too is to be welcomed."
Amanda Solloway MP, who is herself a keen runner and has completed XX London Marathons, said:
“Derby North and the wider city are home to lots of fantastic running groups and it was great to meet with them and share our running experiences in the local area. Their input on this issue is really invaluable and lots of great suggestions have come from our roundtable discussion.
“It has been great to see people enjoying running during lockdown and it remains a fantastic way to stay active and see more of our great city. It is vital that we can feel safe when we do so, and I hope initiatives like RunSafe Derbyshire can play their part in ensuring runners remain safe on our streets.”
RunSafe Derbyshire’s Facebook page can be accessed using the following web link (https://www.facebook.com/groups/278689443930676).
ENDS
For more information, please contact The Constituency Office of Amanda Solloway MP, 13 Darley Street, Darley Abbey, DE22 1DX. Email: amanda.solloway.mp@parliament.uk.
