For those of you who have given up on summer ever arriving... how about looking to the future and embracing the dark nights of late autumn? The John Muir Way Nocturnal Ultra Marathon returns to the East Lothian coast on 11 November and entries have recently opened.

As the name implies, this is a nocturnal ultra-marathon event where participants run a well-marked 5K trail loop to see who can cover the most ground in six hours, all under cover of darkness. Solo and relay events are available and organisers say all you need to do is: "...bring your trail kit, a headtorch or three and loads of energy as well as a sense of humour."

If you think you could keep going for six hours and would love the drama of taking part in the dark, with music, lights and maybe even some fire on hand then a solo slot is for you. The loop passes through the tented base on each lap where there will be space for kit, food, and support and the temptation to decide whether to go again.

If you prefer to be a part of a team, why not make it a night out with your friends? Teams of up to three can run the loop as many or as few times as you wish. Organisers say: "Past experience has shown folk enjoy the atmosphere, the cool competition, and doing the route with pals. We will have music, lights, food, and a certain relaxed way to have fun in the dark."

Summing up the appeal of their event, they continued: "The John Muir Way Nocturnal Ultra Marathon is a thrilling and memorable experience that is not to be missed for adventurous runners looking to push their physical and mental limits."

If you'd like to know more, visit the John Muir Way Nocturnal Ultra Marathon website.

Image: John Muir Way Nocturnal Ultra Marathon