Moon Runner season is almost upon us with the night time series of events set to return with three events lined up for November, December and January. The Moon Runner series is 10K head torch trail races, which offer participants the opportunity to run in beautiful locations illuminated by the moon and stars.

All eyes will be on Hamsterley Forest on 16 November as the first race in the series gets underway. The largest forest in County Durham covering 4900 square acres it is a great location for trail running and enjoying the local wildlife. If you’re lucky you may spot one of the deer, badgers or squirrels.

Next up is Blanchland Moor on 14 December. Blanchland is truly unique – a picture-perfect historic village, recreated in the 18th century from the ruins of a medieval monastery, popular with walkers, cyclists and as a location for period films and TV dramas. Set in the soft landscape between the Derwent Reservoir and and the sweeping moorland fells of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it feels a world away, but is in fact just 40 minutes drive from Newcastle and Durham.

Last up, and into 2025, there is Whinlatter Forest on 15 January. Whinlatter Forest is England’s only true mountain forest, set within the Lake District and home to stunning views, fantastic walks and trail running, exhilarating mountain biking, rare wildlife and adventure play.

All the race routes are fully way marked with reflective markers and signs, marshalled along the whole course and in places have twinkling lights to help you find your way. Organisers say: "The feeling of a head torch trail run in the woods is unique. The night-time adds a whole new dimension to trail running: it is both wild and peaceful at the same time.

"In the darkness of the woodland canopy the light from your head torch will be reflected back by the eyes of deer and other creatures peering out from the safety of the deep forest."

If you'd like to know more, visit the Greener Miles Running website.

Image: Greener Miles Running Facebook