DELAMERE Forest has been chosen as one of 10 locations across the country for a new running event.

Forest Runner is taking place this autumn, with participants able to challenge themselves while enjoying the beauty of the nation's woodlands.

Runners will be able to take part in 5km or 10km events, with solid oak trophies to be won. Everyone crossing the finish line will also receive goody bags.

The event at Delamere Forest will take place at 9am on September 19.

Other Forest Runner dates and locations:

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, September 12 – 4pm

Bedgebury Pinetum, September 26 – 9am

Salcey Forest, October 10 – 9am

Sherwood Pines Forest, October 17 – 9am

Hamsterley Forest, October 24 – 9am

High Lodge, Thetford Forest, October 31 – 10am

Whinlatter Forest, November 7 – 9am

Cannock Forest, November 14 – 9am

Forest of Dean, Mallards Pike, November 28 – 9am

Outdoor clothing and footwear brand Merrell are the official Forest Runner event sponsors, the , as official Forest Runner event sponsors.

Simon Sweeney, Merrell UK marketing manager said: “We are really excited to be supporting the Forest Runner series this year as an event sponsor.

"Our mission is to promote the benefits of time and experiences in the outdoors on mental health along with our charity partner Mind.

"This series will provide the perfect platform for runners of all abilities to experience some much needed escapism and experience the beautiful locations we have here in England.”

Peter Rawlinson, from Forestry England’s Active Forests Programme, said: "It’s been fantastic to see how many people have been enjoying running in the nation’s forests throughout the ups and downs of the past year.

“We have more than 250km of waymarked trails for runners to enjoy and with Merrell’s support, we are delighted to be launching this new event series to deepen people’s connections with the nation’s forests.

"We aim to inspire future generations to run in the forests for years to come.”

Families are encouraged to take part in forest running, which can be better for joints and gives participants a breath of fresh air for body and mind.

Steve Cram, Olympian, world champion and director of events of the North, delivery partners for Forest Runner, added: “As we all strive for a better lifestyle balance, you would struggle to find a more uplifting experience than running through our nation’s stunning forests.

"We plan to offer you superb running routes over your preferred distance, at your pace, in venues that will invigorate you mentally and physically.”

By taking part, every runner will also help Forestry England to take care of the nation’s forests, with all money raised by the events going back into the local woodlands so they can be nurtured for future generations.

Find your local Forest Runner event at forestryengland.uk/forest-runner

Entry to the 5km event costs £20 and the 10km event costs £22.50, plus booking fees. Prices include parking.