NEW races have been added to a village running event, which started last year.

The Ridge Off Roader in Bledlow Ridge was set up last year and saw nearly 300 runners complete the 10km trail.

More than 100 children also ran a 1km course around the primary school's grounds.

This year organisers have added a 6.5km race for those that prefer a slightly shorter course and a 2km race for nine to 14-year-olds so that even more young runners can join in the event.

The 10km and 6.5km start and finish at Bledlow Ridge School and take runners along the footpaths, bridleways and lanes of the Chiltern Hills around the village.

All proceeds from the event on April 27 will go to supporting the Bledlow Ridge School charity.

Ben Park, chairman of the race committee, said: "We are absolutely delighted to welcome runners back for our second Ridge Off Roader. We have added a couple of exciting new races to this year’s event which we hope will result in even more runners of all ages joining in the event.

"We are raising money for a new playground surface at the school so really hope that the event is as successful as last year and we can make a real difference to our much-loved school. As ever we are very grateful to the landowners who have again reacted so positively to us using the rights of way across their land."

Like last year, there will be plenty to do for runners, supporters and spectators alike, with various attractions available at race HQ at the school: a bouncy castle for the children, massages available to runners and spectators before, during and after the race, a bbq with free range hotdogs and bacon sandwiches supplied by Packington Free Range, fresh real coffee, tea and cold drinks and home made cakes and snacks.

The event is licensed by UK Athletics, and advance entries for the 10km and 6.5km will respectively cost £11 and £9 for adults who are members of affiliated running clubs and £13 and £11 for adults who are not affiliated.

Entries on the day will cost £15. The 1km costs £2 and 2km costs £3.

Everybody who completes the main races will receive a medal and a goody bag and children will receive something for their achievements as well.

Runners can enter the event by either sending an entry form in the post or completing an online form, both of which can be found at the website, www.ridgeoffroader.co.uk

Register your interest by sending the team an email at ridgeoffroader@btinternet.com, or using the contact form on the website.