Sussex runners urged to go into the valley

The eight-mile run, which takes in the three peaks of the Lavant Valley, uses the tracks and trails of the Goodwood Estate and covers some of the most stunning countryside in the South Downs National Park.

Spectators can watch from the comfort of the three valley pubs – The Fox Goes Free in Charlton, The Partridge in Singleton and The Star and Garter in East Dean – which will all provide water stations for runners during the race and refuelling stations afterwards.

The challenge is organised by local fitness company and hosts of the popular Valley Bootcamp, Milestone Fitness, to raise funds for Singleton Playschool.

Last year’s race fielded nearly 100 runners and raised an incredible £2,000 for local children thanks to sponsorship from local energy company IGas and Wests of East Dean.

The feedback from runners, who came from all over the south, was overwhelmingly positive. There was even a surprise celebrity racer as Hugh Dennis, star of Mock the Week and Outnumbered, turned up to run on the day.

This year’s race takes place on Saturday, September 20, starting at 10am at East Dean village hall. The hall serves as race HQ and offers homemade cakes and other refreshments, registration, bag-drop and a massage station.

All finishers will receive a handcrafted and unique wooden medal from Wests and a bag of goodies. The race is a challenge but suitable for runners of all abilities aged 17 upwards.

For further information, an entry form and details of Milestone Fitness training packages, visit www.milestone-fitness.co.uk/valleychallenge

If you don’t fancy running but would like to support te event, organisers always welcome volunteers to help marshal the race on the day. If you are able to help, please contact Rachel at [email protected]