Nikki Cook is part of the Events of the North team, and a keen runner who has recently started attending a social run club to help motivate her during the winter months.
“Over the past year, working with Events of the North, I’ve truly caught the running bug. I’ve been inspired by the thousands of runners I’ve spoken with pre- and post-race, and I wanted to be more involved at every stage.
As winter approached, I decided to take the leap for myself. After some extensive searching online, I discovered Durham City Harriers and their Couch to 5K programme starting the following week. I took the plunge, signed up, and I’m so glad I did! From the very first session, I met some lovely, like-minded people who wanted to be outside and run, walk, or jog together – sometimes in the car park, and even on pub runs (no drinking, just the route!).
I’ve recently completed the 10-week Couch to 5K course with Durham City Harriers and am now moving into their Transition Group, working towards longer distances. Over the past 10 weeks, the programme has given me confidence to run independently – something I have never imagined I’d be able to do – while also reminding me how energising it is to run alongside others. There’s something truly special about friendly chats and shared encouragement as you tackle Durham’s many hills together.
The coaches have been incredible, offering encouragement every step of the way (and even homemade cake after the runs, which never hurts!). The sense of community has been a real highlight, especially during these darker months. And there’s something to be said for a group of people who willingly meet on a dark, gloomy – and occasionally wet and foggy – Durham nights to run around the city; it really shows the spirit of the group.
I’m proud of every person who made it all the way through the course with me. No matter the pace or time, we all did it together, and every step – muddy or not – is celebrated, often with a coffee afterwards. I really feel this is going to be something that keeps me coming back, especially now that I’m a member, and these are some fantastic perks and benefits too. I truly recommend this to anyone who’s on the fence about giving it a try.
A few weeks ago, we completed our graduation and my first-ever parkrun at Durham, followed by my second as part of the course graduation – a personal milestone I’m very proud of.
I hope this inspires others to take the leap and find their own running community – it’s been such a rewarding experience. Thank you to the Durham City Harriers!
I’ve now signed up for my first 10K in mid-March and I’m hoping to work towards a half marathon when the time is right. Finding the right balance between volunteering, working events, training, and actually running them will definitely be the challenge for 2026 but I am sure being part of the running club and community will be the key!”