are you safe in BIG parks?

[hatstand]

would you go for a run in a deserted, big, park in SW London? I went for a run on Sunday and don't know if I was being paranoid - but felt very aware of the combination of wide open space, NO passers-by plus the proximity of urban, anonymous surroundings. What I mean is I wouldn't think twice if it was wide open and deserted in the countryside but felt a bit vulnerable. what do you think? paranoia or find a more poulated route? I'm not a natural worrier about this stuff.

find a more populated route definately

Go with your gut instincts - their ancient and primordial and usually right!

I live in the countryside, but actually drive to the nearest market town to run popular routes. This is because a few years back whilst running on a quietish country road I was tailed by a car for a couple of minutes in a very sinister threatening way until thank God another car appeared and the former vehicle sped away.

There have been cases - recently - of women runners attacked in large quiet parks

I have just got a National Trust membership and have started going to a nearby castle country parkthere for a run. I feel safer because you have to pay to get in plus there are tourists, rangers and other workers about. Not keen on deserted public parks.

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