Jedi, Wookiees and stormtroopers all join Parkrun to mark Star Wars Day

Dogwalkers and afternoon strollers caught sight of some unusual characters jogging about in a Bradford park earlier today. 

The Lister Parkrun held a special edition to mark May 4, otherwise known as Star Wars Day for the date’s familiar ring to the classic tag line – ’may the force be with you.’

Participants have shared with Metro.co.uk their reasons for taking place weekly 5k community event, which takes place every Saturday at 9am. 

James Williams, 42, who was running today dressed as a stormtrooper, said: ‘My team at work regularly do a parkrun. Great team bonding! 

‘I do charity events locally as a stormtrooper and thought it would be good fund to take part in May the Fourth parkrun. 

‘It’s a great atmosphere, a fabulous community event.’

Faye Booth, 48, who dressed as an alien, said: ‘What a lovely way to meet people and make friends.

‘There’s no pressure here – you can go at your own pace and run, jog or walk through a beautiful park.’

Gary Ludwin, 51, one of the event’s organisers who went dressed as Darth Vader, said: ‘When we plan our parkrun we look to fit in as many themed events in each year since we started.

‘We feel that by having a chance to celebrate and of course get the fancy dress out helps with the community feel that we want our parkrun to be. 

‘Of course if anyone ever wants to bring along some cake we’re not going to object!’

James Knight, 53, who went dressed as a clone trooper, added: ‘What a fabulous day for a parkrun to start the Bank Holiday weekend. 

‘Plus a great excuse for fancy dress… not that I need one!’

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