After-dark running club to help curb harassment

Organisers say the aim is to help women feel safe to stay active outdoors during the winter months

A free after-dark walking and running club has been launched in Shrewsbury in a bid to help women feel safe and stay active.

Led by a member of the team at the Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre, it will meet every Thursday between 19:00 and 20:00.

It is supporting Sport England's This Girl Can campaign Let's Lift the Curfew.

Although the sessions are designed to encourage more women to stay active after dark, "everyone is welcome" said Rhys Collins from Shropshire Community Leisure Trust, which runs the centre with Serco Leisure.

High-vis clothing is also being provided for participants' safety.

People do not not need to be members of the leisure centre to join the free running club, but do need to sign up for the sessions.

"While there would ideally be no need, it is great to hear that a group such as this exists to allow women to feel safe while exercising," said James Owen, who is responsible for leisure on Shropshire Council.

"Especially at a time of year where the darker evenings can already lead to poorer mental health."

In a recent study in Worcester, 60% women said they had been victims of physical or verbal abuse while out running

West Mercia Police has said it plans to use undercover officers to identify harassment of female runners.