Budding runners take your marks.

The Stainland Lions Running Club are holding their popular beginners’ course starting on Monday, April 7.

The seven week course attracted 140 people last year and is aimed at over 17s - absolute beginners, those seeking to restart running or existing runners looking to improve.

Lions’ Spokesman John Bassinder says the club prides itself on being all-inclusive and friendly with an excellent social life.

He said: “In the past we have seen a complete spread of ages, fitness levels, running experience and abilities.

“Those who have never run at all or possibly not for a few years, those who are just curious to know what the attraction is and those who are already quite fit and running by themselves but want to explore the advantages of joining a club and accessing qualified coaching.”

And don’t fear having to take on marathons from the start - following a gentle warm up new runners will be split into groups building up from a steady walk/run pace for those who have never run before.

Beginners are divided into groups of similar ability and build up fitness at an appropriate pace.

There are around 20 to 30 Lions helping at each session and qualified run leaders will be running with the various paced groups.

The beginners will start increasing fitness on roads and towpaths but the Lions’ regular training sessions take in roads and trails, track and fells and include hill training, speedwork and more - all options will be on offer at some point during the course for those who want to try.

Course co-ordinator Rachel Whiteley, who joined the Lions as a beginner, now leads groups two or three times per week.

She said: “Come along and give it a go. This course is suitable for all abilities with the aim to introduce you to the joys of running and improve your fitness, whilst at the same time is agreat opportunity to make new friends.”

The course will take place from the Lions’ headquarters at Heath Rugby Club, West Vale, on Monday nights starting Monday April 7, with registration from 6pm, warm up starting at 6.30pm and costs £10 for the seven weeks.

Anybody who is interested can contact Rachel Whiteley on 07583694215, or email SLRCBeginners@hotmail.co.uk.

More details can be found by visiting www.stainlandlions.com .