Trail runners on the Wirral have something new to look forward to in 2025 as the Wirral Summer Trail Series makes its debut with five exciting races between April and August. Set against the stunning backdrop of Royden Park, this fresh addition to the local running calendar promises scenic routes, a thrilling team competition and a summer full of off-road challenges.

Taking place on the third Tuesday of each month, the series kicks off on 15 April at 6.30pm, with subsequent races scheduled for 20 May, 17 June, 15 July and 19 August, all starting at 7.00pm. Runners will take on a 5-mile (8K) course featuring 500ft of elevation and some of the park’s most iconic landmarks, including the lake, Thors Rock, the summit and the Crocodile.

Organisers say: "We have designed the route to showcase the best of the Wirral’s natural beauty, providing a true test of stamina and skill on mixed terrain."

The series offers something for both solo runners and teams, with individual and team prizes up for grabs. Unlike traditional race formats that favour only the fastest finishers, this scoring system rewards participation as well as performance. Every runner contributes to their team’s total, with the first finisher earning the most points and the last still adding a crucial one-point boost. This means that a larger, more consistent team could potentially outscore a small but fast-paced group, keeping the competition wide open until the final race.

Runners don’t need to be affiliated with a club to take part and any group of friends, colleagues, or training partners can enter as a team. To be eligible for prizes teams and individuals must complete at least four out of the five races. Organisers will update team standings after each event and crown the series champions at the end of August.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Wirral Summer Trail Series entry page.

Image: Wirral Summer Trail Series Facebook