Organisers have confirmed the return of the Railway Relay this summer, with the north east team event set to take place on 2 August along the traffic free Formartine and Buchan Way.

The relay will once again follow the route of the former railway line linking Dyce with Fraserburgh and Peterhead, now a shared use path through rural Aberdeenshire. Teams will cover approximately 27 miles from Peterhead to Ellon, sharing nine stages ranging from two to four miles.

On the event's return organisers explained: "The new plan is to hold the event biannually. Hopefully this will condense the interest each event into a healthy number of teams, as the atmosphere is entirely generated by the energy of the participants."

The format is designed to welcome a wide range of abilities, with teams of three to five runners setting off in staggered waves based on predicted finishing times and expected to arrive in Ellon during the afternoon. The route is largely flat but features a mix of tarmac and trail surfaces, along with steady climbs and long descents.

Prizes will be awarded to the fastest male, female and mixed teams, while all participants will receive a commemorative medal. Food and drinks will be available at the finish area, where organisers say a celebratory atmosphere will welcome competitors and supporters alike.

Final word with race director, Steven G: "This event offers a distinctive opportunity to experience one of the region’s best known active travel routes while sharing a team challenge across Aberdeenshire’s countryside."

If you'd like to know more, visit the Railway Relay website.

Image: railway Relay Facebook