AROUND 100 people each week are putting their best feet forward to take part in an event which is part of a national initiative.

The Troon parkrun was launched on December 2 and people of all ages from across the town are dusting down their running shoes to take part.

Volunteers organise the event, which is held along the prom every Saturday, from 9.30am.

Troon man Colin Cotter is one of the organisers of the 5k (3.1 mile) event.

He said: "The idea for a parkrun was put forward more than a ear ago. At first Barassie was suggested as the location for the parkrun but we felt Troon would be better as you get a much more even surface along the prom. Funding for it came from the Royal & Ancient Golf Club, who support projects in host venues for the Open Championship. The course is good because children's buggies and wheelchairs can be pushed along.

"We have a team of volunteers who help make sure the event goes ahead but we are extremely grateful to Helen Marshall and Rachel Cox. Each week we have an average of 100 taking part and that's good."

Adults and children aged four and upwards can run. However four to 11-year-olds must run with an adult.

The course involves two loops close to the old swimming pool and then they ran the full length of the prom to Royal Troon Golf Club and back.

However it's not all about the need for speed.

Colin said: "Some people might do the run in 15 minutes and others could take 50. We have a winner but it's more about participation and getting people involved. Everyone is welcome to take part."

People who would like participate should log onto www.parkrun.org.uk and search for the Troon event.

All you do is register and download a barcode which will be exchanged for a time at the end of the race.

Our pictures show some of the action from the February 10 event, won by Tom Jessop of Ayr-based Ayrodnamic Runners.