, as the locals turn out in force to cheer some 1,100 runners round the undulating, two-lap traffic-free course. Well established on the north-east racing agenda, this year marks the event’s 20th anniversary, and a concurrent 3K race for 11-16s and a beginners

.Turning your thoughts to the post-race BBQ might provide a much-needed incentive when the going gets tough, while those keeping a keen eye on the clock are sure to reap the rewards of the event’s unique prize system. All competitors to cross the finish within a

flat, long-standing race that combines the medieval delights of Stratford-upon-Avon with the beautiful Warwickshire countryside. This is just one of several events commemorating the playwright's birthday weekend, and the town will be buzzing

-raising fixture, held in association with The Week of Peace, a seven-day itinerary of events promoting community cohesion and safety across the capital. Participation, rather than competition, is the order of the day, with both beginner runners and family groups

to this one-lap ten-miler shouldn’t expect from their post-race loot, it’s anything traditional – previous mementos have included mealworms, zips, water bombs and golf tees. Not that such peculiar prizes are the sole reason runners flock back to this event