THERE will be a new race in the running diary which is aimed at families.

The Ridge Off Roader has been set up by a group of parents from Bledlow Ridge School and its first race will be on Sunday, April 28.

Runners will take to the footpaths, bridleways and lanes of the Chiltern Hills around Bledlow Ridge in the 10k race which starts (at 10am) and finishes at the school in Bledlow Ridge.

One of the committee, Ben Park, who has a five-year-old son called Rufus at the school, said: "A lot of us run and cycle in the area and know how beautiful it is.

"It is probably the most beautiful 10k in the UK."

It is about 90-95 per cent off road and all proceeds from the event will go to supporting the Bledlow Ridge School charity.

Mr Park, who is a composer who lives in Radnage, said the event will also be for those left behind.

There will be activities for the children including a bouncy castle and a one km race for any one who wants to take part. T

here will also be refreshments, stalls selling local produce and massages available to runners before and after the race.

Mr Park said: "It is very important to us that it does involve the whole community and bring the community together".

Advance entries are £11 for adults and £6 for juniors who are members of affiliated running clubs; £13 for adults and £8 for juniors who are not affiliated; and entries on the day will cost £15 for adults and £10 for juniors.

Everybody who completes the race will receive a medal and a goody bag.

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 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.