A NEW club has been launched to offer friendship and company to runners.
Run Talk Run is a free weekly 5km jog for all abilities in Knutsford.
It gives members a chance to chill out and share their feelings in a safe space.
Run leader Sarah Johnson, 35, from Knutsford, said: "We are a peer support group first and running club second.
"Whether you want to feel heard, be there to listen to others or just have some friendly company whilst you exercise, Run Talk Run is an inclusive and welcoming space."
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The jog is gentle and has already helped people to get to know each other and make new friends.
Sarah Johnson, right, with runners who meet every week at Apus Peak cafe before they set off
Sarah, a child psychotherapist, joined the inaugural run when she lived in London, set up by founder Jess Robson who found it easier to talk about her depression whilst jogging.
There are now 170 Run Talk Run groups all over the world.
Sarah Johnson, far right, running with members of the Run Talk Run
"I was really nervous because I had never been to a group run before," said Sarah. "But I met loads of lovely people who were supportive and encouraging.
"I work in mental health myself and found it really nice at the end of the day to natter and jog. It was my way of unwinding, a bit of self care."
Sarah Johnson offers a warm welcome to anyone who wishes to join Run Talk Run
Run Talk Run meets at Apus Peak on Tatton Street at 6pm every Thursday for a 6.30pm start.
"I'm not there as a therapist or running coach," said Sarah. "I'm a pretty good listener. People can come along and meet me before we set off.
"Someone might have been through a tough time. People can talk about whatever they like and include some difficult stuff sometimes.
"We've all had a tough year and a half with Covid. This creates a space where people can open up in confidence.
"Our mission is to make running and mental health support less intimidating and more accessible."
No running experience is necessary and members listen but do not advise.
Sarah said:"We always set the pace by the slowest runner and we can always stop and walk for a little bit.
"The feedback we have had so far has been really positive.
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