Goodness in the Park to return with virtual festival for Bishop's Stortford health, fitness and wellbeing fans

A health, fitness and wellbeing festival is to take place online after the real-life event in Bishop's Stortford was cancelled because of coronavirus.

The virtual 'Goodness in the Park' will take place on Sunday July 19, from 9am to 6pm, and be streamed live from the Friends of Castle Park Facebook page.

One of the co-ordinators, Emily Tickridge, said: "The Friends of Castle Park had a busy year planned for the Bishop's Stortford community, with a fantastic events calendar. Unfortunately, like so many others, these events have been cancelled, postponed or adapted to the current way of life."

Goodness in the Park was due to take place on July 19 at Sworder's Field, with more than 30 local gyms, clubs and coaches showcasing their classes and free demonstrations for the public to participate in.

"The Friends of Castle Park did not want to disappoint the community or exhibitors and has organised a virtual Goodness in the Park," said Emily.

The day will be filled with a variety of wellbeing and fitness classes, from a high-intensity class with Craig Hardingham, from Lift-Off Fitness, to a family yoga session with Jo Wilson, of Joga.

Wellbeing and fitness champion Adriana Potts said: "This time last year we were in full swing with preparations for our second Goodness in the Park, now one of the highlights in the Bishop's Stortford summer calendar.

"Even though this year we are not allowed to gather hundreds of people in Sworder's Field as we've done before, by staging the virtual Goodness in the Park, with inspiring classes and leading local fitness instructors and teachers, we are still bringing people together to keep active, mindful and share in the love and power of community."

The event is supporting Grove Cottage, the London Road home of Mencap in Bishop's Stortford. There will be a donate button for those who wish to give to the charity.

Fundraising assistant Alison Cameron said: "This is a brilliant initiative by the Friends of Castle Park at a time when our fitness and wellbeing are particularly important. We are extremely grateful to them for supporting Grove Cottage with this event and we hope that it's a great success."

The schedule can be found on the Friends of Castle Park Facebook page and website. To find out more information, email committee@friendsofcastlepark.net.