Running bishop to join race day congregation

HE is the ultramarathon running, surfboarding Bishop of Birmingham whose _ latest mission is to join thousands of people for the Midlands’ greatest running event.

- STAFF REPORTER

The Right Reverend Dr Michael Volland will be among 16,000 people of all ages and abilities taking to the city’s streets on Sunday when he runs the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run Half Marathon.

The bishop, who is also training for his 17th ultramarathon as well as the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run, admits that people are sometimes surprised to find out that he is a keen runner.

They may also be surprised to discover that he loves surfing and has been a member of a charity called Christian Surfers UK for 30 years.

Dr Volland said: “I like the sense of freedom that comes from just leaving your house and running down the street.

“I value the space to think and look around. After a run I often feel more mentally alert and have a sense of inner peace and calm.

“Running is a gift from God. It creates space to think, pray and be refreshed and it gives me a lot of joy”