There's still time to enter the Tom’s Cairn Trail Races which return to Finzean on Deeside on 14 September, offering a choice of distances in one of the most scenic running locations in the area. First held in 2016, the event was created by members of the Parent Council for Finzean School and Ballogie Nursery, many of whom are keen runners themselves. Their aim was to combine a love of the sport with a way to raise funds for the school while giving participants the chance to experience a fun and rewarding race in a beautiful part of Scotland.

The flagship Tom’s Cairn 10K covers 10.1K with a 239m ascent to the top of Tom’s Cairn. Starting and finishing at Birse and Feughside Church, with the kind permission of the congregation and minister, the race takes runners through the trails of Finzean Woods before crossing the road for the climb to the summit. The views from the top are a highlight before a fast descent leads runners back across the road, over fields and down the Finzean Community Path to the finish.

The 5K offers a gentler challenge for adults and secondary school children. It starts at the church and heads downhill onto estate tracks into the woods before diverging from the 10K route. There is also a 1K fun run for primary-aged children, which loops around fields near the church. All young runners receive a memento and an ice cream on the day.

Adding to the atmosphere will be the sound of a piper on the hill to keep spirits high, along with live music after the races for runners, families and friends to enjoy. A selection of home bakes and hot drinks will be on offer for both participants and spectators.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Tom's Cairn Trail Races website.

Image: Tom's Cairn Trail Races Facebook