HUNDREDS of runners are preparing to race past castles and through countryside as they compete in one of the most stunning races in the country.

On Sunday, April 14, more than 200 aspiring athletes are expected to take to the famous Sandstone Trail to welcome in spring and raise thousands of pounds for the NSPCC Rainbow House in Crewe.

For the sixth year, the Sandstone X-Country run will see runners race over rocky footpaths and tackle steep climbs as they race through Beeston, wind round Peckforton Castle before crossing the finishing line at Beeston Market.

Following the success of last year’s 10k race, which saw more than 200 entrants brave the pouring rain and raise almost £3,000 for the vital children’s service, the NSPCC Nantwich District Committee hopes that the route will attract more runners than ever as it kick-starts training for the marathon season.

And with a bouncy castle and shorter races for children, families are expected to flock to the starting line to wave on the competitors and have fun while waiting for their loved ones to finish the race.

Race organiser Andrea Beaumont said organisers were hoping for another ‘great turnout’ this year and for the runners to get in a charitable mood and try to raise as much money as possible for such a worthwhile cause.

The NSPCC X-Country Sandstone Race starts at 10am on April 14 at Beeston Market car park. Entry is £10 or £12 on the day.

For more information and entry forms, call Andrea Beaumont on 01829 732994 or email sandstonerun@yahoo.co.uk.