There aren't many 10K races whose identity is so closely connected to one of Britain's best known foods. The Stilton Stumble returns on Sunday 11 October, taking runners through the Nottinghamshire villages at the heart of Stilton cheese production.

Starting at 10.00am from Cropwell Bishop Memorial Hall, the UK Athletics certified road course heads towards Colston Bassett, another village internationally associated with the famous blue cheese. Runners enter along a quiet back lane past the cricket ground before continuing through the village and eventually turning back towards Cropwell Bishop.

The rural setting is a major part of the attraction, but the Stilton Stumble has also developed strong community roots since the inaugural event in 2013. Its organisers describe their aim as creating a friendly charitable race that gives runners an opportunity to test themselves while supporting the surrounding villages.

That community focus extends beyond race day. All proceeds from the event are donated to Cropwell Bishop Friends of the School and 1st Cropwell Bishop Scout Group, with volunteers and local supporters playing an important role in staging the race.

Environmental measures have also developed over the years. Water is served from larger containers into recyclable cups rather than individual bottles, pre-race information is distributed digitally and the event has moved to medals made from 100% recycled zinc.

For runners looking for an autumn 10K with a distinctly local character, the Stilton Stumble offers something different: a certified road race through attractive Nottinghamshire countryside and two villages synonymous with one of Britain's most famous cheeses.

You can enter this year's Stilton Stumble via the runABC race hub here.

Image courtesy Stilton Stumble on Facebook.