Deeside Runners' notorious Night Race Series kicks off tonight with the Cnoc Dubh 8K race. There are a further three events between now and the end of February with organisers saying of the series: "Four cafes, four forests, four races. Turn up, pay a quid, win a rabbit…"

Tonight's Cnoc Dubh 8K will take place at a new venue for 2023 - The Cambus O’May Hotel near Ballater. The route takes runners on a picturesque path through the woods for about 1K, then re-joins last year’s route, which means there is no stony track at the start and finish any more, but it does 'add a bit of distance and climb'. Organisers comment: "As usual expect fallen trees, brashings, puddles and wet holes to fall in. The usual fun in other words."

It is worth noting, if you're tempted to sign up that the hotel will be serving teas, coffees, cakes and soup and they have also promised a nice warm fire. Sounds perfect!

Up next is the Tarland Trails 6K on 28 December - the perfect Twixmas race. Registration and prize giving will be at the Tarland Tearooms (formally Angie’s Cafe) in Tarland Square and those who like their grub are once again in luck as there will be soup, teas and cakes.

Into the New Year and it is the Dess Woods 8.2K on 25 January. The route for this one is a bit complicated, consisting of a steep climb followed by some lovely running over grassy fields then a loop on mostly single track paths in the woods with another stiff climb and a very fast descent to the finish.

Up last is the Potarch 6.8K on 16 February. Registration and prize giving will be at the Potarch Inn – across the bridge over the River Dee. Organisers say of this race: "There are two climbs to the trig point on Craigmore hill up fire breaks, and two very nice descents on a good path."

Speaking about their series as a whole, organisers say: "Deeside’s notorious Night Race Series. Prizes galore (don’t do it for the prizes), cafes serving well-earned refreshments after (bring some money)… what’s not to like?

"You'll need a good headtorch, and to carry full body cover, a map and compass (just in case you got lost in the woods at night in the middle of winter)!"

If you'd like to know more, visit the Deeside Runners website.

Image: Pixabay