It all began with a few rowers, some local harriers and a challenge over a cup of tea. More than six decades later, the Blyth Sands Race is still going strong, with runners preparing to tackle five miles of Northumberland coastline on Sunday 6 December.

The origins of this remarkable event stretch back to 1959, when members of Blyth Rowing Club challenged local runners to a race along the beach between Blyth Harbour and Seaton Sluice. The rowers, led by the Pearson brothers, demanded a head start to even things up. They won convincingly, and a North East running tradition was born.

Organised today by Blyth Running Club, the race retains its unusual handicap system. Competitors start at different times according to age and gender, with some runners receiving up to 15 minutes before the senior men set off. The result is a fascinating contest as the faster runners attempt to close the gap along the shoreline.

And the beach has a few surprises of its own. The out and back course changes with the tides and weather, with firm sand, softer patches, exposed rocks and wooden groynes all potentially influencing the race. It's a very different challenge from five miles on the road.

The event has attracted some outstanding athletes over the years. Olympic marathon bronze medallist Jim Alder was a regular competitor, while Mike McLeod produced a remarkable 23:59 in 1975, finishing just one second ahead of Dave Gibbon in a memorable contest.

This year's race starts at 9:15am, with entries closing on 30 November and no registration available on race day. For anyone wanting to experience one of the North East's most unusual running traditions, full details and entry information are available through the runABC Race Hub.

Image courtesy Elvet Striders.