On Sunday February 6, the Vale will once again be putting locals to the test with the 29th running of the Blackmore Vale Half Marathon.

Starting and finishing at Bishop’s Caundle Playing Fields, the event, which is run by the Blackmore Vale Lions Club, brings together runners from across the area and beyond, all taking on the course with it’s infamous ‘final mile’.

The phrase “It’s a (half) marathon, not a sprint” certainly holds true for a good few of the expected runners, many of whom will be looking simply to complete the demanding course rather than chasing winning times.

But there will be a number of seasoned runners keen to break records or pushing to cross the line first. Whether running for fun, to create a new PB (personal best), or simply as the perfect antidote to beating the extra pounds gained at Christmas, the event is friendly, the course is spectacular and the views are more than a little bit special. However, it’s the last mile that sets this half marathon apart and attracts the hardiest few, as it is all uphill!

Refreshments are available before and after the event which starts at 11am, with Dikes of Stalbridge and Victoria O’Brien Cakes both supporting the race (and after all those miles, the runners will at the very least deserve a cake!). For those wishing to watch, the cafe/shop in Bishop’s Caundle will be open for warming drinks and food. And as a local event, spectators are certainly welcome to cheer on friends or family who after weeks of training will finally be taking on with of the most loved and talked about courses, run over the hills and scenery of the Blackmore Vale.

Please note, there are toilets at the start/finish area and limited parking. Water stations will feature across the course manned be a team of friendly volunteers and runners should be aware that there are no changing facilities. Unfortunately, the race is unsuitable for wheelchairs.

Information is available on the Blackmore Vale Lions’ website; bvlhm.yolasite.com

Start time; 11am

Start/finish location; Bishops Caundle Playing Fields, DT9 5NB