A group of former couch potatoes have completed a five kilometre road race after taking part in a programme to become more active.

On Sunday, 70 runners and walkers “beat the couch” by completing the ‘Sir’ Stanley Burgess 5K road race in times ranging from 26 minutes to 47 minutes. They even managed to beat top long distance runner Ashley Estwanik, who brought up the rear of the pack pushing four children on a couch.

The Beat The Couch programme was set up by nutritional therapist Catherine Burns, and is aimed at “getting sedentary people off the couch and fit in a fun and supportive group environment”.

The majority of the training sessions are led by professional trainers Sergio White and Chuck Morgan, with Mrs. Burns leading some social sessions.

Speaking after Sunday’s race, Mrs Burns said: “It’s so hard to explain just how proud of our team we are. Every single person here made a commitment ten weeks ago and followed through on their goals despite many obstacles thrown in their way.

“They have been an exceptionally supportive group and we have seen so many bonds form and friendships blossom that may not have occurred in day-to-day life. That’s one of the things we love about this programme — we have a very diverse range of participants but it’s an extremely unifying experience.”