Runners from all over the country are descending on Cornwall to take part in the annual race which raises funds for Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s continued work in protecting the county’s wildlife.

This year's annual Race for Wildlife in Penwith takes place on Sunday, December 1.

The stunning 7.5 mile race through the countryside north of Penzance takes in breath-taking views of Mounts Bay and St Michael’s Mount, and is part of the Cornish Multi-Terrain Race Series for 2019. This will be the ninth year it has been held, and as always it attracts some of the county’s top runners. The event is organised by the Mounts Bay Harriers in collaboration with Cornwall Wildlife Trust, and is hosted at Penwith College.

Race for Wildlife attracts runners who want to help the Trust raise vital funds for the work they do for the wildlife of Cornwall. A percentage of entry fees will be donated to the Trust. Additional sponsorship forms are downloadable from the event page for anyone wanting to raise additional funds.

A challenging route, the race includes off-road tracks through fields, with the added obstacle of Cornish stiles to cross, uneven stony ground across the moors, as well as tarmacked roads. The first half of the run is uphill, with the second half being downhill with a slight kick uphill to the finish at Penwith College.

Mounts Bay Harriers will be providing refreshments and the proceeds will all be going to the Trust to support their work protecting Cornwall’s wildlife and wild places.

Cheryl Marriott, head of conservation at Cornwall Wildlife Trust said: “We hope the Race for Wildlife will raise as much money as possible for Cornwall’s wildlife. There is still a huge challenge ahead to ensure Cornwall’s natural environment and the fantastic wildlife we have is protected for future generations.

"From our bottlenose dolphins to the rare dormouse, to the wonderful heathlands found in Penwith, we work to protect Cornwall’s wildlife and wild places. Runners raising sponsorship will make a real difference to their local wildlife.”

Race HQ, parking, baggage area, toilets and showers are at Porthcurno Building, Penwith College, St Clare Street, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 2SA.

Registration opens at 8.30am and the race begins at 10.00am. The race is not suitable for wheelchair users. No dogs are allowed on the college premises or to join in the race due to livestock in some fields. No earphones, iPods, personal stereos are allowed to be worn or this will result in instant disqualification.

Pre-entry fee for Race for Wildlife is £16 for Affiliated UK Athletics members or £18 for Non- Affiliated.

To enter the Race for Wildlife please visit www.mountsbayharriers.co.uk/mbh-events/race-for-wildlife where you can download an entry form.

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