COUNTY Councillor for Crediton Rural, Nick Way presented £300 from his Devon County Council locality fund allocation, to the Crediton Running Network (CRN).

This will enable the running club to have a higher level of qualified coaches, giving more flexibility in the types of group it is able to offer.

Two leaders, Bridget Merrit and Karla Gregory have started their coaching course, having spent two days at Tavistock and Helene Bond will be taking her course at Bristol in March. The coaching courses are run by UK Athletics, the CRN's national governing body.

Currently the network has almost 100 members of varying ability, from total beginners to marathon runners, with about 30 of these being men.

The club's social runs, which are open to members and non-members, are sometimes a starting point for men.

They often enjoy the running and become members, some going on to take the leaders' course with a view to starting up their own groups.

Cllr Nick Way commented: "I think it's terrific that this network has taken off and that there are so many men joining is encouraging.

"Running is very good for a one's health and well-being."

For more information on the club visit the website http://www.creditoncouriernewspaper.co.uk">www.creditoncouriernewspaper.co.uk .

Nora Parminter