It is regarded as the UK's toughest Parkrun course.

But Great Yarmouth North Beach continues to bring in dozens of joggers from across the country to take on the challenge.

Our reporter and newbie runner James Weeds decided to gear up for the run, which is as fun as it is challenging.

Here is his account:

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Running on the soft sand just after the start of Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun. Picture - James WeedsRunning on the soft sand just after the start of Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

I had walked along the promenade to limber up, and by the time I made it to the starting line on North Beach near Sandown Road, I was greeted with instructions and words of encouragement by course leader Trevor Rawson.

"This is not a race," he said.

"It's a nice, slow fun run."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: More than 100 people gathered for the Great Yarmouth Onrth Beach Parkrun on July 8. Picture - James WeedsMore than 100 people gathered for the Great Yarmouth Onrth Beach Parkrun on July 8. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

At 8.59am, the countdown started, and within seconds, our 5km jog had begun.

While running in Great Yarmouth and Gorleston offers flat surfaces and small elevations, running on soft sand poses its own challenges

Wrestling my instinct to run flat out, it was clear these conditions are better suited for slow and steady.

By the shore, the sand had compacted and provided a softer landing while being hard enough to build some speed.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Running along the shore at Great Yarmouth North Beach. Picture - James WeedsRunning along the shore at Great Yarmouth North Beach. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

I breathed long lungfuls of sea air, the sun was high in the sky, and the light breeze kept me cool. I thought as long as I maintained a steady pace and take in my surroundings, this would be easier than I thought.

Then the course turned along the outside of the Britannia Pier. As the sand became softer, my running became slower and my thighs started to burn.

But I kept looking around. It was Saturday morning in the middle of summer, and I was on the beach in good company.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Reporter James Weeds running beneath the promenade at Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun. Picture - James WeedsReporter James Weeds running beneath the promenade at Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

In celebration of the NHS turning 75, several runners donned scrubs or clothing which applauded the National Health Service. 

Running beneath the promenade towards the 1km mark, we chatted through harsh breaths while younger, fitter runners made easy work of the melting sand beneath their feet.

I ploughed on with my head raised.

To many people, the challenge of the North Beach Parkrun is what sets it apart. But for me, you can't get better scenery for a morning run. North Beach's difficulty makes the view feel well-earned.

I ploughed on for another lap-and-a-half before making it to the final 200m. I continued to pace myself, happy that I hadn't stopped during the course.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The talk for first-timers at Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun. Picture - James WeedsThe talk for first-timers at Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

At just over 38 minutes, I trundled over the finish line beaming as I received supportive cheers and claps from the other finishers and volunteers.

Afterwards, I applauded other runners, joggers and walkers crossing the line and chatted with other runners. Runners had come from Ipswich, Medway and even as far as Bristol - a testament to the appeal of the Great Yarmouth North Beach experience.

Afterwards, I treated myself to a bottle of water and an iced coffee from the Beach Hut with other runners.

I can't deny it was a challenge, but the community at North Beach made it a fantastic experience and one I would love to take on again soon.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Reporter James Weeds midway through the course at Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun. Picture - James WeedsReporter James Weeds midway through the course at Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

On the day (July 8), 120 people finished the course, with 88 people tackling their first time at Great Yarmouth North Beach. There were four personal bests, and 23 volunteers were on hand to ensure it ran smoothly.

The first male finisher was Neal Hardwick, who completed his 264th Parkrun in 24.52.

The first female finisher was Keziah Hopkins in 28.46, completing her eighth Parkrun.

Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun started on February 8, 2020. Since then, some 3,053 participants have completed 5,840 Parkruns covering a combined distance of 29,200 km, including 464 new personal bests. 

A total of 266 individuals have volunteered 2,038 times.

Parkruns across the country take place every Saturday morning from 9am.

For more information on Great Yarmouth North Beach Parkrun, visit www.parkrun.org.uk/greatyarmouthnorthbeach