PARK runners in Thurrock take centre stage in a recently published book.

Thurrock Parkrun regular Gary Rowlatt is the author of 'Raiders of the Lost Park', which is set in the borough and based at the Pyramid Centre, Orsett Heath.

Gary is spreading the word about the book and says: "I wanted to reach out as a local runner as I've just published a short, cinematic parkrun-inspired book called Raiders of the Lost Park, and it's set entirely at Thurrock parkrun.

"It's a mythic, funny adventure that celebrates the spirit of our Saturday mornings - the marshals, the runners, the dogs, the puddles, and even the Temple of Bones. If you've ever sprinted for a PB or dodged a football, you'll probably recognise a few moments.

"I'd love to share it with the Thurrock parkrun community, All proceeds are going to support south Essex MNDA."

The preview to the book says: "Every Saturday, runners gather in a quiet park. But this time, the park has other plans.

"What begins as a simple parkrun becomes a three‑act epic — a mythic adventure through familiar terrain retold with cinematic flair. From the rise of the Temple of Doom to the snarling beasts of the plains, from the burnt‑out chariot of the balaclava gang to the rolling football of doom, this is the story of ordinary runners facing extraordinary obstacles.

"Villagers watch from the shadows. Marshals guide like ancient spirits. Dogs bark warnings. And somewhere beyond the treeline, the golden glow of the finish line beckons.

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"The ordinary becomes legendary. The run becomes myth."

Here's the link to the Kindle ebook site.