A FAMED cross-country running event will return to Herefordshire this summer.

For 24 years from 1977 to 2001, the Offa’s Dyke 15 Cross Country Race, which follows the Offa’s Dyke Long Distance Footpath from Hay-on-Wye to Kington, was a huge success, on one occasion attracting over 800 runners from home and abroad.

But the foot and mouth outbreak in 2002 forced the cancellation of the event and, once stopped, it was difficult to get the impetus going again.

Many hoped for its reinstatement, but finding the large number of people to assist with organising and marshalling was always a big challenge, and so the famous race slipped quietly into local history.

It was finally re-established in 2015, thanks to the efforts of keen runner, former contestant and business owner, Rob Minton and his team at Tempo Events, and original race director, David Joyce.

A small but excited contingent of around 100 runners completed the 15 mile route that year, and event has continued to grow year-by-year.

But whilst participation numbers may not have quite reached the heady heights of by-gone years yet, Tempo hope to spread the word that the race is back and want to build numbers back up.

Around 300 runners are expected to toe the line at the start of this year's race, which will take place at 11am on June 15.

All are welcome to come and cheer on the runners as they make their way from the start line at the Clock Tower in Hay to Kington's Lady Hawkins School, taking in the villages of Newchurch and Gladestry along the route.

Coaches will be laid on to return the runners to Hay.

Original organisers Allan Lloyd and David Joyce say they are delighted that their 'baby' will be back and bringing attention to this very special part of the world.

To enter, visit www.tempoevents.co.uk or for more information, contact Rob Minton at rob@tempoevents.co.uk or by phone on 07717795333