Running group's delight with 5km achievement

The Pluss Walking and Running Group meet weekly in Plymouth to do runs and walks

Members of a running group formed exclusively for people with learning disabilities are celebrating after completing their first 5km (3.1m).

The Pluss Walking and Running Group - which has people aged between 27 and 42 with various learning needs - formed in May this year and has some members who have not run for decades.

The group meet weekly in Plymouth’s Central Park to do running and walking sessions to improve their fitness.

Miranda Ritchie, the group's running instructor, said some of its members have completed their first 5km run which was an "incredible achievement".

'Exceeding expectations'

Ms Ritchie said the group found the last mile of the run "hard", but they all helped each other out.

"We were talking about all sorts of things such as Christmas and we sang some songs and laughed as we went, It was beautiful," she said.

"The rest of our group did so well with their walking and running too."

The group attends Pluss in Plymouth, a supportive learning disability service which helps them into work and training.

Sally Carr, Pluss learning disability training team leader, said it has been great to see the confidence of its members grow.

Ms Carr added: "It’s exceeded my expectations of how good it's been and we are really thrilled with their progress."

'You feel good'

Members of the group said they loved being a part of it, with Greig - who has Down's syndrome - saying he would give it a "10-star" rating.

Zoe, who was one of the runners who completed the 5km course, said being part of the group had helped improve her stamina and strength.

"It makes you feel good," Zoe, who also plays football for Plymouth Argyle's disability team, said.

"It leaves you out of breath, but a lot healthier and I enjoy getting out in the fresh air."

Miranda Ritchie (centre) with (L-R) group members John, Zoe, Scott and Brandon

Ms Ritchie said the whole group was making good progress and the members were "truly inspirational".

"They’ve got a real zest for life, it’s incredible," she said.

“It’s very special and it makes me quite emotional to think of it.”