Part of the Urban Trails series of races and scheduled for 13 August, the Branches and Bays 10K is a beautiful trail run that takes in two bays on the East Durham Coast as well as the beautiful Hawthorn Dene.

What makes this race extra-special is the fact that the route is over a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with race organisers working hard to bring the race to the calendar despite what must have involved a deal of 'hoop jumping'.

And new for 2023, a 5K distance will join the event, organisers Trail Outlaws, say: "This new 5K Trail Run will be part of our already popular 10K Branches and Bays Trail Run! This is part of our new series of 5K trail runs to compliment our longer distance trails. If you are new to running, or fancy a shorter distance, then the 5K trail races are perfect for you."

Starting in the local village of Hawthorn, the races takes participants through the Durham Wildlife Trust and National Trust managed woodland of Hawthorn Dene before running round the Bays of Hawthorn Hive and The Blast Beach.

A spokesperson from Trail Outlaws commented: "Branches and Bays is part of our Urban Trail Series - all our races are fully marked and we have an amazing team of marshals who will help guide and support you. Come and have a fun time; meet new people and become part of our friendly and wonderful Trail Outlaws community!"

The Trail Outlaws Urban Trail Series (UTS) of events are aimed at giving runners of all abilities the chance to have fun or race on local trails. All races are fully marked and marshalled to help you on your way. Prizes will be awarded for the winners of each race and there is also an UTS league trophy for the male and female league winners.

You can find out more about this scenic event by visiting the Trail Outlaws website.

Image: Trail Outlaws Facebook