THE Anderton Boat Lift will be hosting its inaugural 10k trail race and one-mile fun run next month.

Both runs will start from the base of the giant lift, with the trial race starting at 10.30am and the non-competitive fun run at 10am on Sunday, May 20.

Graham Wood, duty manager, said:” The Anderton Boat Lift is an iconic Cheshire landmark and an example of high Victorian engineering at its very best.

“Visitors to the site find it fascinating. I can’t think of a more marvellous way to start a race than from the base of this giant lift.”

“Before and after the race, all the runners and their families will have free access to the historic Anderton Boat Lift’s site, meaning they can enjoy looking at the world’s first successful boat lift as well as taking advantage of its shop, tree-top coffee shop and exhibition area.

“Children can also enjoy the Lift’s new £50,000 play area. We look forward to welcoming all the runners and their families for what promises to be a great event.”

Phil Eccleston, Time2Run race organiser, said: “The Lift is an ideal location for a run because it has ample parking, a large site for runners to gather and is located very close to great trails for off-road running through the nearby woodlands.

“I think runners will find this new run really enjoyable.

“As for all our races, competitors will be individually timed and later we will announce the names of elite runners who will also be part of the race.

“All runners will receive a bespoke Anderton Boat Lift medal and goody bag.”

Tickets for the 10k trial race cost £18 or £16 if you are affiliated with UK athletics.

The fun run costs £5 per person.

Advanced tickets for can be booked online at time2runevents.co.uk.