An island getaway is just what the doctor ordered... and that's what runners signing up to Coll Half Marathon can look forward to this summer. Set to take place on 19 August, the race has become an important annual event on the Isle of Coll, with most of the locals involved in some way.

Such is the race's popularity that many runners return each year, not just to challenge themselves as they enjoy the stunning views on this beautiful island, but also to have a fabulous Coll weekend.

An Cridhe, the island’s community centre is the hub of activity for the day where non participants can spend the afternoon with a great vantage point for cheering runners on as they reach their first kilometre and later, welcoming them across the finish line. Great food and drink will be available during the afternoon and evening and, once the runners are home and refreshed there is Ceilidh, Coll style!

Organisers comment: "An Cridhe will be bouncing with live music. Don’t worry if you don’t know the dances. You will soon pick them up and there will be plenty of people happy to help! The question is, have you got the stamina to dance an Orcadian Strip the Willow after running a half marathon?"

If you think a half marathon is a step too far, there are also 10K and 5K routes. There's even a kids' race. Organisers are proud to provide an event suitable for everyone, and in such a beautiful location too, commenting: "We can't promise blue skies and sunshine but we guarantee you will have a great day out here on the Isle of Coll."

A previous participant, Chris Barbour commented on Facebook: "Highlights for me were all the people who rallied together to make this weekend a success including the friendly competitors. Also loved the food in the wee cafe and the hotel. I thought the Ceilidh at night went really well with a great mix of music from the band.

"Despite finding this a really tough race I’ll hopefully be back next year as the overall event/experience was brilliant."

If you'd like to know more, visit the Coll Half Marathon website.

Image: Coll Half Marathon Facebook