Hundreds of people turned out in Bognor Regis for a community event aimed at helping women feel safer and more connected.
Safer Steps brought residents together for a 5K walk, jog or run along the seafront, starting from West Park Cafe.
Before the event got underway, music was provided by V2 Radio’s Peter Phillips, Gary Booker and Steve Freeguard, followed by a warm-up led by local running coach Mark Penfold.
Participants were encouraged to wear bright or reflective clothing and many also brought lights and glow sticks, creating a highly visible presence along the promenade.
The route passed an area of the seafront where new lighting has recently been installed following a successful bid to the council.
Safer Steps Bognor Regis 5K - Credit: V2 Radio's Peter Phillips
Organisers said the improvement was particularly important because the area had previously been left in darkness, making it less welcoming for people walking or running there after dark.
After completing the 5K, participants headed to The Waverley, which hosted the community part of the evening free of charge for the second year running.
Sussex Police, Lifecentre, My Sister’s House Women’s Centre and the Arun wellbeing team were among the organisations attending, alongside local gyms, fitness businesses and community groups.
Safer Steps Bognor Regis 5K - Credit: V2 Radio's Peter Phillips
The event also gave residents the chance to speak openly about where they feel safe, where they do not, and what could be done to improve community safety.
Organisers said the strong turnout showed how much interest there is locally in creating safer public spaces and supporting people who may otherwise feel isolated.
Although the event was focused particularly on women’s safety, men were also encouraged to take part, with organisers stressing that making public spaces feel safer is something the whole community can contribute to.
The evening also helped raise awareness of local support services and gave people the opportunity to connect with organisations and activities available in the area.
Organisers said the success of the event showed that the 5K was about much more than exercise, with the wider aim of bringing people together, starting conversations and helping make Bognor Regis feel safer and more connected.
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