A weekly parkrun is to host a special run to honour a “wonderful” marshal.
Gerry Cattell was a recognisable face cheering on runners taking part in the Hove Promenade park-run, which takes place every Saturday.
In February, the club paid tribute to the beloved run marshal in a social media post.
Organisers wrote: “If you’re a prom regular you will know our wonderful Gerry who showed up every week, regardless of the weather, to cheer you on with her cowbell along the course.
“She celebrated her 80th birthday with us a few months ago and she was right at the heart of our team.”
To celebrate her life, the club is hosting a special commemoration run on Saturday, May 2.
Participants are encouraged to “be more Gerry” and bring along someone who hasn’t been to park run before.
Supporters are also asked to bring along a cowbell, something Gerry was recognised for.
Organisers said: “Gerry was our much loved volunteer in her very own marshal spot – a short distance west of the start line – every week, come rain or shine and with cow bell firmly in hand!
“Gerry first joined us on the prom a couple of years ago with her son, Jonathan, and continued to volunteer when Jonathan’s health condition meant he could no longer attend.
“To commemorate her life, the impact Gerry had on our event and on so many of us individually and the sense of community she embodied, we are encouraging everyone to ‘be more Gerry’ this week!
“Bring someone along who hasn’t been to parkrun before and help us show them that parkrun is for everyone.
“Think about volunteering and giving back to this magnificent community. Bring along a cowbell to cheer other prommers on.
“Gerry was very special and we are looking forward to a suitably special morning on the prom this coming Saturday to pay tribute to her.”
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In a piece shared on the club noticeboard in 2024, Gerry opened up about what Parkrun meant to her.
She wrote: “Due to my osteoarthritis I cannot walk or run the circuit but I can give my encouragement to everyone who [runs] and how much I enjoy their smiles and verbal response.
“I feel their determination as they make their way around Hove Prom and when I see some of them flagging on the final lap, I use my voice and hand clap to break through their exhaustion.
“Their head comes up and a smile crosses their face as they find that extra run. For me, at the age of 78, I return home exhilarated because I belong to the biggest, happiest family.”
Organisers ask that anyone who can volunteer this Saturday to email hovepromenade@parkrun.com.