A NEW group has been set up in Southall that aims to get more people running.

It is the brainchild of the Ealing Half Marathon organisers, in conjunction with Sport England.

Southall Running Club, which began last year, meets twice a week and continues to grow.

Sessions are free and focus mainly on complete beginners.

Coach Kevin Walker said: “We would love to get more people in Southall running.

"The aim is for them to progress to eventually running a 5k and, with the Northala Parkrun nearby, there’s the opportunity to run a free weekly 5k in a great community environment.

“Once people do Parkrun they are hooked and we actively encourage them to do so.

“Ealing Eagles beginner group has probably welcomed 500 to running in Central Ealing since January 2012.

“We’d love to help achieve the same in Southall over the coming years.”

Jags Sanghera, a regular attender, said: “The weekly coached sessions have made me enjoy running. It’s a fun environment which has encouraged me to get out every week and has improved my health immensely.”

Anu Johal agrees. “The fact that I am now even contemplating running a 5k and a 10k and potentially a half marathon is amazing. Running in a group makes such a difference,” said the newcomer.

The group meets on Tuesday evening at 7:30pm at Spikes Bridge Park and every Thursday morning at 7:30 in Southall Park.

If you would like to join, contact running@ealinghalfmarathon.com for more details.

The Ealing Half Marathon takes place on Sunday, September 27 and is known for its huge community support, with runners travelling from all over the UK and abroad.

Registration is now open. Go to www.ealinghalfmarathon.com for further details.