Running club founder recognised for community impact

Andrew Gwynne MP presenting the award to Liam Parker-Worsley

A COMMUNITY champion who has helped to fundraise for local charities and establish a running club has been recognised by his MP. 

Liam Parker-Worsley’s journey began during lockdown when unhealthy habits and low physical activity had impacted his mental health.

In early 2023, Liam decided to transform his life by joining a gym and using the NHS Couch to 5k app, before progressing to running outdoors.

As he built up confidence, he became an ambassador for the “Manchester Road Runners”, ensuring no runner was left behind on group 10k runs.

From this, Liam recognised the power of community fitness and wanted to give back to Dane Bank, where he grew up, so he established the Dane Bank Running Club in January 2024 to promote active lifestyles in a safe, inclusive environment.

The club now has over 500 members and a team of dedicated volunteers.

Not only that, Liam has also organised a number of running fundraising events which have raised nearly £2,000 for local charities, including 42nd Street Manchester, The Proud Trust, The Running Charity, Mustard Tree and Manchester Pride.

Denton’s MP Andrew Gwynne ‘gatecrashed’ the running club’s first anniversary social event at the Dane Bank pub recently to present Liam with a Citizens Award.

The MP has been recognising local heroes who have gone above and beyond for the people in their communities since 2020.

Liam told The Correspondent: “Andrew addressed the attendees and explained that he had heard lots about our running club, the impact it has had on the community and the runners that come along – including the work we do with the NHS Couch to 5k programme to get people out and about and active.

“I was quite overwhelmed (in a good way!) but incredibly gracious to have the impact of the club recognised and celebrated, especially around our runners, some of my closest friends and of course my family too.

“Not only did it recognise the work with the Dane Bank Running Club, the award also highlighted the fundraising efforts of Run the Streets MCR, which is an events group I have helped to organise. It’s a monthly running event that aims to raise awareness and funds for local causes, including, most recently, FareShare.

“I later found out that one of our volunteers, Zoe McClean, was the mastermind behind the nomination. She explained the efforts she had put into the nomination, which again I am incredibly grateful for!”

Liam’s desire to want to help his community become more active inspired Zoe to put him forward for the award.

“I decided to nominate Liam when I saw the impact he had made to so many local people who wanted to get fit by setting up the Dane Bank Running Club,” she explained.

“He is so passionate about running and wanted to give something back to the local community. He rallied some volunteers to help and to ensure no-one gets left behind, regardless of their ability.

“He even arranges social meet-ups a few times a year. He makes everyone feel welcome and safe and through him, new friendships have been formed.”