What you need after the excesses of Christmas and the New Year is some physical activity, and 500 people not only participated in this run in Broadstone, they also collectively raised the sum of £3,000 in the annual quarter marathon in aid of YMCA Bournemouth/The Junction Sports & Leisure Centre.

The race, now in its 37th year, is organised by YMCA Bournemouth in collaboration with The Poole Runners. Every New Year’s Day, runners navigate their way around a two-lap course starting and ending at the main shopping parade in Broadstone.

All raised funds go towards facilities and equipment for YMCA Bournemouth’s sports and leisure centre – The Junction in Broadstone – which welcomed more than 3,000 new adult members last year. This year’s donations will contribute towards new steps to help improve accessibility to the centre’s popular swimming pool.

Nick Gillespie, The Junction’s centre manager at YMCA Bournemouth, said: “Since 1986, our quarter marathon has served as an invigorating and rewarding way for members of our community to kickstart the New Year.

“The camaraderie is always inspiring to see, as hundreds come together to raise money for those in need. Particular recognition should go to Poole Runners veteran, Geoff Scott, who’s run every one of our 37 races – even taking on the course on his own in 2021 when the wider group race had to be cancelled due to Covid.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who took part this year to support YMCA Bournemouth. Thanks to our community’s contributions, we can continue delivering a range of essential services to Dorset – from temporary housing support and counselling to youth clubs and health and leisure facilities.”

Penny Jarvis, race director on behalf of Poole Runners, said: “We are so grateful for the support of all the staff at The Junction for all their help in setting up this race and handing out water and mementos on the day. We are delighted to be able to support The Junction and to organise a very popular race for local runners. It’s a real win/win.”