A Liverpool running group is encouraging LGBT+ people to get involved with local sport.
Liverpool Frontrunners was established in 2015 with the goal to promote physical and mental wellbeing among the LGBT+ community.
The group of approximately 60 members is based in Sefton Park and meets every Wednesday for their weekly group run.
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Mitch Hawkins, 40, from Grassendale, founded the group after noticing a gap in the market for LGBT+ sport in Liverpool.
The avid runner wanted to create a space where LGBT+ people feel comfortable to take part in sport activities without hiding any part of their identity.
Mitch told the ECHO : "There are often many barriers for LGBT+ folk approaching sport as an adult, often stemming from being completely put off by most sport in childhood.
"We are there to provide a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for everyone to give it a go."
Liverpool Frontrunners aims to create a safe environment where people can thrive without the need to curtail any part of their identity.
Mitch argued that while the sport industry has made great strides to increase LGBT+ visibility, there is still a long way to go and much work to do to rebuild trust with the LGBT+ community.
Mitch continued: "Visibility matters, as does active inclusion and support.
"Seeing others like you taking part and succeeding can encourage others to take that important first step, which is often the hardest."
Frontrunners extends beyond Liverpool to reach an international network of more than 100 groups worldwide.
The initiative originated in 1974 in San Francisco and served as a safe space for LGBT+ people who may have experienced homophobia, biphobia or transphobia in traditional sport settings.
The Liverpool branch welcomes all LGBT+ people, whether they are complete beginners or experienced veteran runners, and introduces them to a welcoming and friendly community.
As of 2021, Liverpool Frontrunners homes approximately 60 members.
Founder Mitch added: "At its core, Liverpool Frontrunners is a social running group.
"Our ethos is to promote physical and mental health within the LGBT+ community through running.
"A very big part of that is building a community, so even if it’s not on an official group run you'll always be able to find someone to go for a run with."
Mitch welcomes any LGBT+ people who are interested in running to get in touch with Liverpool Frontrunners and attend one of their sessions.
Mitch added: "Running is a very accessible pastime because you don't need an expensive gym membership or any special equipment other than a pair of trainers.
"Some people don't feel comfortable running on their own, so we can provide them with a way to do what they enjoy with like-minded individuals.
"No one is left behind."
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