Runners looking for a challenge rather than a fast time are being encouraged to sign up for the return of the Blakedown Bolt, one of the West Midlands’ most distinctive and best loved 10K events. The race will take place on Friday 19 June, starting at 7.15pm, and will once again take runners through the scenic countryside of Worcestershire on a course that is as tough as it is memorable.

Set around quiet country lanes, farmland and woodland, the route offers a varied mix of terrain with hills, stiles and narrow sections to navigate. Much of the course is traffic free and includes a loop around Mount Segg, with organisers promising impressive views along the way as well as the event’s famous water crossing.

A spokesperson told us: "While the race is not one for chasing personal bests, it has built a strong following for its character and atmosphere, with many runners returning year after year.

"We hope you’ll join us, but that’s only going to be possible if you’re quick. We usually fill our last place sometime around the end of March, beginning of April. Just saying!”

After the race, runners can enjoy a relaxed finish line atmosphere with a barbecue and bar, adding to the social appeal of the evening. All finishers receive a unique Blakedown Bolt memento in the form of a genuine nut and bolt, a nod to the area’s historic forging and tool making heritage dating back to the 1700s.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Blakedown Bolt entry page.

Image: Blakedown Bolt Facebook