Early bird entries are now open for the Wild Deer Ultra Trail which is back 'by popular demand' for 2024! A spokesperson from Wild Deer Events said: "Our first Wild Deer Ultra Event was a huge success so we will be returning to the Waskerley Way on Sunday 20th October 2024. We hope you'll join us!"

The 53K circular route starts at Shotley Bridge near Consett in County Durham and takes runners along the Derwent Walk and Waskerley Way to Waskerley Reservoir, where they then head over the moors to Smiddy Shaw Reservoir and Hisehope Reservoir.

After crossing the moors there is a short stretch on the road through Muggleswick before picking up footpaths of Derwent Gorge and Muggleswick Woods towards Mosswood. Runners will then reach Shotley Bridge, following the footpath along the river towards Ebchester, Blackhall Mill and crossing over at Hamsterley to pick up the Derwent Walk back to the finish.

Organisers comment: "The route may be tweaked from this year, but will still show you the beauty of County Durham with spectacular views along the way."All finishers will get a medal, exclusive Wild Deer Ultra beanie hat, snacks and drinks. There will also be free parking and photography.

If you're keen, be quick to secure the early bird rate... organisers told us: "Because of the success of this year's event, we expect extremely high demand and early bird prices are only available for the first 100 entries so don’t miss out."

If you'd like to know more, visit the Wild Deer Ultra Trail website.

Image: Picture Perfect Photography