London calling

With the much-hyped 'Freedom Day' having arrived in the UK on 19 July many restrictions have been lifted, including rules on social distancing.

Race organisers were quick to take advantage – ending months of stonewalling by local government agencies which up until then had been unwilling to shoulder responsibility for public events within their areas.

First off, on 20 July, was the Standard Chartered Great City Run, in the City of London with 1632 starters, followed five days later by the ASICS London 10km, with 7,900 starters.

The day before the 10km race the free 5km series Parkrun had been held for the first time since the pandemic started with events in 500 locations throughout the country.