'I love the inclusivity of our learning disability running group'

George, Dewni, and Aaron share a passion for running, despite their additional needs that have previously limited their participation in the sport. Thanks to the Ilkley Harriers Learning Disability (LD) Running Group, they have improved their fitness, formed friendships, and even entered races.

The group began in 2024, led by just three people, but has since grown to include 13 regular participants who meet for jogs around Ilkley, a town nestled at the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. The leaders were recently nominated for a volunteering award by England Athletics.

BBC reporter joined the group for an evening run, where George, 23, shared that he has completed the Ilkley 5k race twice since joining. He enjoys the energy of being outdoors and the sense of being part of a community.

Caroline Tong, the founder of the group, drew inspiration from her own positive experiences of running. She recognized the need for better opportunities in sport for those with learning disabilities and aimed to increase visibility and participation. Caroline is now joined by a team of volunteers who meet every Tuesday night to lead the runs.

Dewni, 18, loves running and making new friends, and has formed a bond with leader Ruth Jones. Ruth notes that the group members have made significant progress, from being unable to run the entire park circuit without sitting on a bench to now completing the full route at their own pace.

Aaron, 26, joined the group shortly after its inception and praises the inclusivity and camaraderie. Barney, 24, joined in January and values the group as a social night, noting the friendship and support he has gained. Aidan, also 24, credits the group with helping him build confidence and lose weight through a combination of healthy eating and increased physical activity.

Stefanie, 30, has been attending the group for two years and enjoys the sense of community and the sense of achievement from participating in races like the Ilkley 5k. She has also started attending regular gym sessions and has made many friends through the group.

Alice, 26, credits the group with helping her become more active and raising awareness of disability issues. She has participated in Parkruns in nearby Skipton and Keighley, experiencing a boost in confidence since joining the running group.

The Ilkley Harriers LD Running Group has been nominated for the Unsung Project of the Year in the England Athletics regional volunteer awards. If successful, the award will be announced on Friday. Caroline emphasizes that the group's success lies in the mutual support and continuous growth of its members, who are often hesitant or lack confidence when starting out, but leave feeling energized and proud.