A BIG turnout is expected for Saturday's Bolton parkrun which will mark the fifth anniversary of the popular free weekly event.

The 5k run through the woodland of Leverhulme Park has become a Bolton sporting and fitness institution since the first one was held on February 5, 2011.

Sixty people took part in that inaugural event, a figure which was quickly to rise into the hundreds and then the two hundreds two or three years later.

The lowest number to take part was the hardy 38 who turned out on March 23, 2013, on a freezing cold day and a slippery course that, while being the right side of safe, was a challenge to negotiate.

Bolton parkrun was started by Rowan Ardill who was quickly joined in organising the event by his brother David and Alistair McArthur, who, like Rowan is a co-event director.

They have been joined in recent years by Andy Patterson and Rob Short -  who, along with David, occupy the roles of core run directors - and others who, together with the army of volunteers, make the Bolton parkrun happen.

There have been many events in the last year that have attracted more than 300 runners and it is hoped Saturday's big birthday event will do the same.

The parkrun appeals to the full spectrum of people who want to get round a 5k course under their own steam.

A number of club runners use it as part of their training but there are far more who treat it as form of fitness, many going on to run more regularly or even join a running club or group.

Runner of the week: Ani Das who completed his 50th run on Saturday, complete with custom-made t-shirt.