A FESTIVAL of running and walking will take place in an East Renfrewshire village this weekend in a bid to kickstart community events following disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The fun takes place in Uplawmoor on Saturday, with all profits being donated to the Trussell Trust, which operates a network of foodbanks.

Anyone of any ability is welcome to take part.

Event organiser John O’Donnell said: “The run started as part of the village gala day and the last time that happened was 2019 but then Covid hit and nothing has taken place since.

“I’ve never organised it before but, as an attempt to get something going within the community, I decided to do the run.

“I’m hoping it re-energises the community and then we get the annual village gala day up and running again because that is a community-run day which is volunteer led and all about goodwill, so hopefully this reignites the interest in that.”

John added: “The run was never done for charity but my thinking was, if I’m going to do the run, then I’m going to do it for a good cause.

“I heard a radio interview a few months ago with a lady who manages a foodbank. She was saying that people are having to choose between heating and eating and that broke my heart.

“Sometimes we are a bit isolated in the village out here but that sentence stuck in mind and the Trussell Trust – being the local foodbank provider – seemed an obvious choice.”

On the day, there will be three events – a 1km race for those of primary school age, a 3km route for those who are at high school and a 9km course for adults.

“We are absolutely pushing the message that it’s not just for the speed demons,” added John. “It’s just about taking part.”

The race for those of primary age starts at 9.30am, with the other two runs getting underway at 10.30am.

There is a £1 entry fee for the younger children and a £3 charge for those of high school age.

Adults taking part in the 9km event are asked to pay £10 on the day but anyone who might find this cost prohibitive can make a smaller donation instead.

Registration is from 9.30am at the clubhouse of Uplawmoor Tennis Club, next to Mure Hall.

There will be trophies for the winners.

Runners should bring their own water and will be taking part at their own risk, although a first aider will be on hand.