RUNNERS are being encouraged to take part in a new summer 10k race in Westonbirt.


The Forestry Commission’s National Arboretum charity, which raises money to protect the arboretum at Westonbirt, is encouraging people to compete in the Westonbirt 10k in June.


The event will take place on Monday, June 8 and the route will take participants through both the Old Arboretum and Silk Wood, offering the perfect opportunity to get active whilst enjoying the wonderful Westonbirt landscape.


Runners can also play their part in supporting the world renowned tree collection at Westonbirt by pledging sponsorship to the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum charity, in return for free race entry.


Paul Cody, the Forestry Commission’s head of visitor attraction at Westonbirt, said: “Westonbirt is the perfect place to enjoy some outdoor activity, so we are really excited about the 10k becoming part of our events calendar.


“It’s a no-pressure run and participants of all abilities are encouraged to come and give it a go.”


The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum raises money to help protect and preserve the arboretum whilst enhancing public enjoyment of the tree collection and securing its long term future.


The race, which is opened to anyone aged 16-years-old and over, will start at 7pm and entry is £12 for ARC affiliated runners and £14 for non affiliated competitors.


Free entry is given to those pledging sponsorship to the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum charity and medals will be presented to all participants.


To book a place visit www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt.