On 6th of August, Liverpool 5k will be the first of the UK's 2012 Big Fun Runs series. Sheffield 5k will take place the day after, on Sunday 7th August. All venues are said to be carefully selected by the organisers, but let's have a closer look at the first two of the series.

Liverpool 5k run will see its route going through the magnificent Sefton Park, which has been compared to New York's Central Park such is the grandeur of its parkland.  The run starts and finishes at the Parade playing fields.  At  269 acres (108 ha) it is the city's largest urban park and the run takes full advantage of the vast expanse. Wide tarred pathways dissect the park either side of the lake. The route is believed to be flat throughout, which should make runners experience more enjoyable and fun. 

The start/finish area will be located at the north end of Sefton Park, Liverpool.  This is a short distance from where Croxteth Drive intersects with Mossley Hill Drive. The start/finish area will be indicated by a large inflatable archway. There will be no parking or vehicle access within Sefton Park with a limited parking available along Aigburth Drive and Croxtenth Drive.  Otherwise you may have to walk 10-15 minutes to the starting area so plan your journey accordingly. Pedestrian access is available via all entrances. 
 
Second in the 2012 series is Sheffield 5k Run, staged within the grounds of Rother Valley Country Park and incorporating a lap of both the North and South Lake.  Throughout, the route takes advantage of the gravelled pathways and trared roads.  It will complete a beautifully scenic course with the majority of the route being on gravelled pathways. The start/finish area will be located towards the North of the park and will be indicated by a large inflatable archway. Parking for runners and spectators will be available and will involve up to 5 minute walk.

Although parking is provided in a short distance from the race, The Big Fun Run runners are encouraged by the race series organisers to consider public transport or car sharing. This is one of many steps the organisers are taking to make their event more environmentally friendly.

Those who would like to participate in the Big Fun Run series can now register online and also pick a charity they would like to raise funds for. It's all for a great cause ...