West Mercia Police, which covers Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire, said misogynistic remarks and predatory behaviours were not acceptable.
It added that a survey by Runner’s World magazine showed that, nationally, 60% of female runners experienced some form of harassment, in particular from men in cars, and such incidents were significantly under reported.
In a video posted on Thursday, the police and crime commissioner highlighted comments that had been posted beneath a video, external that was shared on Wednesday which detailed how officers were using the scheme.
“While some may see them as ‘just words’, these attitudes contribute to a culture where harassment is normalised and women’s experiences are minimised,” the PCC posted on Facebook.
“What starts as catcalling, wolf-whistling or unwanted comments is often dismissed as harmless, but this can escalate, leaving women and girls feeling intimidated, unsafe and unable to enjoy public spaces without fear.”
John Campion added that the women in the original video had read the comments left by members of the public.
“This is exactly why initiatives like Jog On matter,” he said.
