The Halloween count down is on, pumpkin candles are back in vogue and for some, costume planning may already be underway (or is that just me?). It's always exciting to see what Halloween themed races are on the calendar as they are always more fun than a visit to a pumpkin farm (and usually cost less too). This year sees the return, after a three year absence, of the Halloween Blackout 5K which takes place at Winton Castle near Edinburgh on 29 October.

Organisers are delighted to get this event back up and running and have this year partnered with Chest Heart Stroke Scotland (CHSS) to bring runners some seriously spooky fun. The action-packed course includes over 30 obstacles, from the tricky tyre wall to the barbed wire army crawl, and tunnels and trenches filled with water guaranteed to make a splash.

Runners will need stamina and determination to make their way round the 5K course, but they will have loads of fun along the way. Running through the woods of Winton Castle Estate on the outskirts of Edinburgh, this exciting event is perfect whether you’re an assault course pro or a complete beginner and it's great for all the family too with those ages 8 and over all welcome!

A spokesperson for the event commented: "In 2019 we had over 250 runners with many wearing Halloween-inspired costumes as they ran past flood-lights, disco lights and even fire pits. We cant wait to see everyone again."

The fun doesn't stop when the obstacles end, as there will be a host of food and drink vendors and entertainment for a festival atmosphere on the day, and there’s free parking too. Those taking part will also receive an exclusive goody bag and a medal - so no need to go trick or treating then!

Make your run mean even more by fundraising for CHSS, when you sign up you’ll receive a Fundraising Superhero pack, including a CHSS t-shirt and a guide to help you start raising money. Any money you raise will help people with chest, heart and stroke conditions live their lives to the full.

If you'd like to know more visit the CHSS website here.

Image: CHSS/Blackout Run