Apply early if you want to avoid missing out on one of the country’s best 10k runs, writes Petts Wood Runners’ club coach Richard Dunstan.

The Petts Wood 10k returns on Sunday, October 12, but there is unlikely to be the chance to enter on the day with the race limit reached two weeks before the run last year.

It is now well established event in the community with 850 entrants last year and many hundreds of spectators.

We have also developed the race day to include three different children’s race categories for ages between five and 11 with distances ranging from 400 metres to 800 metres.
 
The main race course includes local roads, parks and woods, which suits all athletic abilities and is scenic and challenging.

It heads away from Willett Recreation Ground into the trails of National Trust-owned woods and the Hawkwood Estate.

More than 100 line the route to ensure runners do not lose momentum, and we receive consistently high praise in feedback for the support given.

As well as experienced club runners from Beckenham, Orpington and Bromley-based clubs, 90 per cent of the entrants are non-club runners who enjoy it because of the welcoming attitude of Petts Wood Runners' marshalls.

Since the inception of the race in 2007, the surplus generated - which in 2013 was £4000 - has been donated to Orpington-based St Christopher’s (formerly Harris HospisCare).

They also generate additional revenue from selling teas, coffees and freshly baked cakes on the day.

Go to pettswoodrunners.org to enter