This past Sunday, I had the opportunity to join Recovery Runners, a run club based in Halton, Leeds.
Meeting at the Halton Moor Amateur Boxing Club, the group brings together people from all walks of life for weekly runs with a deeper purpose.
Now, I must say, I do run, but I’ve always been the type who prefers to suffer in solitude with my headphones in, so, I’ll admit, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from my first-ever run club experience and was a little worried about being too slow or too unfit. But from the moment I stepped through the door, I was put at ease.
I arrived just after the 9:30am meet-up time and was immediately greeted by Dean Smith, one of Recovery Runners’ co-founders. Warm, open and clearly passionate about what Recovery Runners stands for, Dean instantly made me feel welcomed. We chatted for a bit while others filtered in, and before long, I found myself surrounded by an easy sense of camaraderie that I hadn’t expected.
Jamie Heselden, the other co-founder, soon arrived, bringing more good energy to the room. Currently training for an Ironman, Jamie’s dedication and drive are instantly noticeable – but you can also feel his genuine care for others. Both Dean and Jamie spoke to me with passion and enthusiasm, not just about the club, but also about the power of community, mental health and the transformative impact that running can have.
Having founded Recovery Runners in early 2020, they faced challenges in gaining momentum due to
COVID-19 restrictions. However, once lockdown was lifted, the club took off. Now, with weekly turnouts of up to 40 runners, Recovery Runners has become a thriving community and its impact is spreading. Inspired by what Dean and Jamie have built, similar clubs have also emerged in cities across the UK, each one championing the same values of connection, recovery and support through movement.
Before the run began, Dean and Jamie both took the time to share a bit of their personal stories with me. Hearing first-hand about their own recovery journeys, the challenges they’ve faced and how running became a powerful tool for healing for them, was incredibly moving.
They spoke with honesty, vulnerability, and a quiet strength that stayed with me even after I left. It’s clear that Recovery Runners was born from a deeply personal place; that authenticity runs through everything they do. Their willingness to open up was not only inspirational but also set the tone for a community built on trust, empathy and real connection.
After a quick group photo, we set off on a 5K run. While the hot weather at 22 degrees wasn’t ideal for a run, it somehow didn’t matter. There were laughs, encouragement and plenty of light-hearted banter along the route. I don’t think I’ve had that much fun on a run in a long time.
But Recovery Runners isn’t just about the run. It’s about connection, healing, and building a supportive community. Many of the club’s members are on personal recovery journeys, whether that be from addiction, mental health challenges, or simply life’s curveballs. Through this shared space, the group has created something truly special: a non-judgemental, welcoming environment where everyone is moving forward, together.
The club is currently working towards becoming a registered charity, a step that will help them expand their reach and impact. But even now, their mission is clear: to run, recover and support each other every step of the way.
I left that morning not just sweaty, but inspired and feeling a sense of connectedness. The thing that stood out to me the most was the desire to build a supportive and welcoming community. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a total beginner, facing your own recovery journey or just wanting a place to connect, there’s a place for you there.
The club meets every Sunday morning from 9.30 at Halton Moor Amateur Boxing Club (unless they’re at a race). They ask for a £1 donation to help cover their costs. Typically, there are a few run leaders leading different routes and covering different distances, allowing you to choose which one you’re most comfortable with. Some even just fancy a walk and a chat, so the choice is yours. Welcome to everyone, if you’re looking for a warm community to join or just need that extra bit of support, go down to Recovery Runners.
Additional upcoming events:
Saturday 19th of July – 08.45 meet time – Rothwell Parkrun takeover, celebrating the life of
Marcus Kemp.
Saturday 2nd of August – BBQ celebrating the 4th birthday of Recovery Runners. Everyone
welcome.
