PREPARATIONS are underway for an annual run which has raised thousands of pounds for a village school.

The Castle Howard Trail Race, now in its ninth year, attracts hundreds of runners from across the country.

Over the years it has raised more than £25,000 for Welburn Primary School, which has used the money to buy resources for the pupils – as well as fund trips and activities.

Starting and finishing on the North Lawn at Castle Howard, the event, which will be held on June 14, includes a 10km, 6km and 1km children’s dash.

The 10km route takes in two laps of the grounds, before crossing an 18th century bridge and climbing to the Temple of the Four Winds.

This year, there will be an extra children’s race in response to the increase in the number of children who ran last year.

The 1k dash will be for children under eight, while the 2km race will be for children aged eight to 13. Entries will be on the day only.

The event will kick off with children’s 1km dash at 10am, followed by the children’s 2k race, with the 10k race starting at 11am. Organised by volunteer parents, the event is the main fundraiser for Welburn Primary School and is supported by Pickering Running Club.

Race director Jonathan Ward said: “It’s fantastic to have an event that appeals to runners of all levels and ages, from club runners to those taking part in their first organised run, and to be supporting a worthy, local cause in the process. This year we’ve added the extra children’s race.

“We think this will be a great addition to the day, after the great support it received last year. And at £3 entry for children, we think it’s great value.

“We’re sure that those who are new to the event will be impressed with the stunning location of Castle Howard and we look forward to welcoming back a bigger and better event in 2015.

“Once again, we’re extremely grateful to Castle Howard for their continuing support in allowing us to raise valuable funds for the school.”

The Castle Howard Trail Race returns for 2015, offering fantastic routes around the grounds of one of Yorkshire’s finest historic homes.

Building on the record success of last year and taking place on June 14, the event welcomes runners of all levels and ages, with entries now open for 10k Trail Race.

For more information, go to castlehowardtrailrace.org.uk