Runners who took part in the Reunion 5K run at Kempton Park in Surrey on Saturday (May 15) as part of the United Kingdom Government’s research programme are due to take a follow-up COVID-19 test on Thursday (May 20)

The event, set up as an indicator regarding the return of mass participation sporting events following lockdown, involved runners in two groups.

Race A involved social distancing measures, with runners setting off in socially distanced pairs every three seconds, while Race B was a mass start with no social distancing rules in place.

All runners and spectators had to take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on the day of the event and will now complete second tests.

Everyone entering the Kempton Park venue also had to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 lateral flow test.

The event was organised by London Marathon Events and supported by the Mass Participation Sports Organisers (MSO), a collection of the UK’s biggest mass participation sports organisers including parkrun, Great Run, the organisers of the Great North Run.

Hugh Brasher, event director for London Marathon Events, who took part in the second non-socially distanced race, said: "What an amazing day.

"It was incredible to be back on the start line, shoulder to shoulder with fellow runners, for the first time for 15 months. 

"This is such a significant step towards the return of mass participation events across the UK - from parkrun to the London Marathon. 

"We all need the joy and inspiration of running together again - it’s so important for the mental and physical health of the nation."

The first runner to finish in Race A, the socially distanced event, was Ollie Garrod from Surbiton, who crossed the line in 15min 18sec - the fastest time of both races.

"That was brilliant," he said.

"It was really well organised, we all felt safe and it’s so good to be back running together. 

"I’ve got a place in the London Marathon in October and this is a massive step towards that."