Residents in a popular UK seaside town have voiced their anger and frustration after a much-loved weekly Parkrun was cancelled due to an illegal traveller encampment that appeared overnight. The Bournemouth Parkrun, which is held every Saturday morning near AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium, was abruptly called off on June 28, after volunteers discovered caravans and vehicles occupying key parts of the running route.
In a statement posted to social media on the morning of the event, organisers said: “Event cancelled – 28th June. Unfortunately due to an illegal encampment on the course, we have to cancel this morning’s parkrun. Please head to local parkruns such as Poole Parkrun, Moors Valley Parkrun, Upton House Parkrun, or Blandford Parkrun.”
The five-kilometre run is a fixture for hundreds of locals and visitors alike. It is held every Saturday morning in Kings’ Park.
Many expressed disappointment at the cancellation.
One volunteer speaking anonymously told GB News that the travellers arrived overnight, catching the event team off guard.
“When this was discovered by the core team early this morning, a decision was made to cancel due to safety concerns,” the volunteer said.
“The course goes around the field where the travellers are, and there’s always the risk of moving cars and caravans during the event. We couldn’t guarantee participants’ safety.”
Local runner and father Dave Goodyear described the cancellation as a blow to the community.
“It was a real shame,” he said. “I live right by the park. I don’t usually get to go because of my daughter’s dance class, but I know how important it is to so many people.”
Another regular runner, 26, added: “It’s a shame to see the Parkrun cancelled. It’s how we start our weekends — it brings the community together and helps us stay active.”
Bournemouth Parkrun is one of 866 Parkruns across the UK, part of a national movement that has seen over 3.7 million people cross the finish line since the initiative began, supported by nearly 500,000 volunteers.
Local authorities have yet to confirm what action, if any, will be taken to move the encampment.
