PARKRUN leaders in St Helens have issued a statement warning participants over “unacceptable behaviour” on the course.

This follows an incident in Victoria Park in St Helens on Saturday.

In a statement on the St Helens parkrun Facebook page organisers said that “so again today we had an incident”.

The event director expanded that a parkrunner had “moved a fellow parkrunner out of the way” and then used “unacceptable hand gestures”.

The event director reiterated “that this kind of behaviour is unacceptable”, adding: “If this incident is witnessed by our core team your result will be removed.

She continued: “As in today’s briefing keep to the left. So any fellow parkrunners/ walkers, park users can pass safely.

“Please let's keep our parkrun respectful and enjoyable for all abilities.”

The statement prompted dozens of supportive messages from runners unhappy that the type of rude behaviour is going against the ethos of parkrun to be an event for all that offers community engagement and creates social connections.

One contributor wrote: “I am angry that this individual has fired abuse at someone simply just wanting a fun morning out.

“I know I am a fast runner, which is why whenever I have to overtake I try to be polite as possible, as much as I hate having to say anything, but good manners cost nothing and I’m always thankful.

“I only hope this one person hasn’t spoilt everyone’s achievements this morning, seeing so many runners of all abilities is something worth celebrating.”

Another added: “So sad when this happens. I moved out the way last week for a runner who was a much faster than myself who thanked me, manners cost nothing do they.

“Don’t spoil the lovely running community by being a selfish entitled runner.”