NEW coaches are being urged to come forward to help revive a junior running group.

Between 15 and 20 youngsters aged between five and 15 have taken part in the sessions, run by 1 Foot On The Track, for the last two years.

But they have had to stop the sessions on the indoor track at Bolton's Leverhulme Park due to having no coaches to run them.

The group is a spin-off from 1 Foot's established senior section, which is aimed at getting adults active through running regardless of ability.

Both sections were set up by Andrew Henderson, who recruited Tracy Berry to help with running the children's group.

When Andrew stepped aside from coaching the Wednesday sessions, Tracy recruited three new coaches to take over – regulars Neil Critchley and Kelly Sharples, and David Morrison, who helped out during school holidays.

Due to a combination of factors all three are unable to continue, leaving the group looking for two volunteers who are willing to give up an hour every Wednesday and who have the relevant qualifications to work with and coach children.

Based on fun, the group aims to provide youngsters with the basic structure to enjoy and get the maximum benefit out of running and other active exercise.

The sessions are non-profit-making and cost £2 a week or £26.80 for a yearly pass which pays for the use of the track.

Tracy said: "It is heart-breaking to have to close the children’s session for now.

"I feel like I have let the children down. They loved the sessions and the group was growing slowly but steadily.

"We got insurance put in place, so sessions could be taken outdoors when the weather was nice. The children loved it and we also got our Bolton Mark certificate.

"I was so looking forward to this year's Christmas awards session where medals and gifts are given to the children for all their hard work.

"Hopefully we will be back on track in no time."

Parents of children in the group also hope someone will come forward to revive the sessions.

Daniel Fitton said: "My son Harry loved them. The volunteers do a great job as the classes are fun-based. It is a good place to keep the kids active and meet new friends. A few of Harry’s friends were to come down as he had told them all about it. Hopefully it will be back soon."

Nicola Stewart said: "My three children have thoroughly enjoyed their running sessions at 1 Foot On The Track. The sessions have improved their fitness levels and they had lots of fun there. They loved it so much their enthusiasm led to five of their friends coming along.

"They ask me weekly if the session is back on. They are keen to return and keep on running."

Anybody who is interested in coaching the youngsters can email bolton1footonthetrack@outlook.com