THE running group which appeals to people's better nature has finally launched in Colchester.

Fourteen new members of Goodgym Colchester met at Leisure World before running to Colchester Foodbank, where they cleaned the stockroom.

The national scheme is based on a unique approach to building community cohesion, promoting fitness and reducing social isolation by using weekly runs to support others.

Colchester Council funded the project, led by qualified running trainer, Angela Isherwood, who grew up here.

They were also joined by Ruth Taylor, chief operating officer of Goodgym UK.

Ms Isherwood said: "There's a thriving running scene in Colchester and I'm delighted to be part of bringing Goodgym here to harness the energy of runners.

"The 4km run to the Foodbank was slightly longer than anticipated as the roadworks leading to the Ipswich Road roundabout had closed the footpath.

"But amazingly, in 30 minutes, the whole area was finished. It easily would have taken one person around three hours to do.

"I'd like to say a heartfelt thank you to Cllr Annie Feltham and her team, for putting up the funding, Louise Willsher from Colchester CVS, Matthew Wilson at Leisure World and Aaron Hunter from Colchester Council, who has been so helpful throughout this launch period."

In addition to the group runs every Wednesday at 6.45pm, members can also be paired with an isolated older person and commit to regular visits.

Michelle Lewington, 41, an oncology nurse at Colchester General Hospital, said taking part raised her awareness of the plight of other's close to home.

She said: "I was so proud of what we'd achieved and was quite emotional when telling my partner about it.

"I was totally inspired by the volunteers at the Foodbank.

"If I could bottle the sense of achievement and pride I felt, I could sell it for millions of pounds."

The next session will involve gardening at St Peter's Church and hill training on North Hill.

For more information, email angela@goodgym.org.