It's been a long time coming, but the Tom's Cairns Trail Races are back this September (10th), and with a 10K, 5K and Kid's Race all on the billing - an autumn trip to Deeside starts to seem like a very good idea.

Speaking about the race's comeback, organisers said: "In 2022 sadly we decided to cancel our race due to the passing of her Majesty the Queen the weekend of the race. In 2023 we will be back with our first proper 'no Covid' races! There will be the 10K up the hill, a 5K round the woods and a short kids race. Come along and enjoy the atmosphere, and the cakes!"

The Tom's Cairn 10K Trail Race was first organised in 2016 by members of the Parent Council for Finzean School and Ballogie Nursery. Most of the organising committee are keen runners themselves and saw their passion as a possible way to raise funds for the school whilst enabling people to enjoy a fun race in a beautiful area.

The 10K starts and finishes at Birse and Feughside Church, the route then takes runners through trails in Finzean Woods then crosses the road and climbs up to the stunning viewpoint of Tom's Cairn summit. After a fast descent and recrossing the road, the trail race crosses fields and descends down Finzean Community Path to the finish line back at the Church.

The 5K starts at the church, down the hill and onto the estate tracks into the woods. After deviating from the 10K route the 5K runners pass the small settlement of Turfgate and onto a small undulating path with glimpses of the hills through the trees. The route rejoins the estate track then back up the hill to the finish at the church.

All runners will receive a small token of appreciation upon their finish, as well as a tea/coffee, home-bake, and many congratulations! Organisers continue: "All standards of runner are very welcome; this is a fundraiser for our local school and nursery so we are not taking it too seriously. As a general guide however this would be a perfect first 10K or hill race for someone who has run a 5K."

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

Image: Tom's Cairns Races Facebook