A man who has made a ‘tremendous impact’ on the community is hanging up his trainers after 10 years of organising free runs to help people get fitter.

Rick Wilson, 56, of Clayton Le Moors, has organised running sessions at Witton Park, Blackburn three days a week, helping more than 15,000 people signed up to the Blackburn Couch to 5K become healthy and active.

In 2013, Rick agreed to run for charity in the Pennine 10k Road Race.

He weighed 19 and a half stone, had never exercised in his life, and was breathless when climbing the stairs at work, so with only eight weeks to get fit enough to run the 10km (6.2 mile) route, and determined to not walk any of it, Rick searched for a local running group for beginners offering three sessions a week but couldn't find any.

He decided to follow his own Couch to 5K plan, and after successfully completing the Pennine 10k Road Race and losing three stone, founded the Blackburn Couch to 5K.

Lancashire Telegraph: Rick Wilson Rick Wilson (Image: Lorraine Wilson)

Sharing how proud she is, Rick’s wife, Lorraine said: “He has made a tremendous impact on so many people’s lives across Blackburn and beyond.

"So many people have him to thank for introducing them to running and indeed a much healthier lifestyle.

“Rick has run these programmes which have been totally free of charge for everyone.

"He has been down in the park three nights a week, whatever the weather, and has shown so much dedication and commitment.

“The amount of hard work, effort and organisation in putting this together and maintaining it over such a long period cannot be underestimated.”

Hundreds of volunteers and thousands of participants have supported the Blackburn programme, and some gathered in Witton Park yesterday (June 1) at 7pm for the final ever run.

Rick said: “I’d like to thank the hundreds of volunteers, and tens of thousands of participants, for your trust and support over the last 10 years.

“It’s been absolutely incredible! I’ve experienced selflessness and kindness that’s exceeded my wildest expectations and witnessed many truly incredible achievements – from completely normal people, just like you and me.

“Most of all I’ve made lifelong friendships, with so many people, that I will always value and never take those friendships for granted.”

Jayne Dowding, from the Chorley Couch to 5K, said: “Nicola McIntyre brought the programme to Chorley with Rick's support and it literally snowballed and changed thousands of people’s lives for the better, both physically and mentally.

"Lifelong friendships have been formed. It has been amazing.”

John Clayton said: “Very sad to hear it’s the last programme. Some great memories and it put me on the road to some big achievements that I’d never thought I’d do in a million years. Thanks Rick and everyone involved.”

All the volunteers arranged a cake and presentation for Rick to celebrate his dedication over the last decade.