ENTRIES are now open for Alton’s 34th annual Downland Challenge – the 5k and 10k trail races that will take place on October 1, starting and finishing at Anstey Park.

Organised by Alton Runners and Alton Lions, the 5k race is open to anyone aged 10 and over while the 10k has a minimum age of 15.

The 10k event starts at 10.30am and goes out through the village of Holybourne and up over Holybourne Downs, while the 5k starts at 10.35am and is mainly on hard tracks and footpaths around the Holybourne area. Both races are well marshalled.

All finishers will receive a medal, and there are trophies for winners in various age categories. There is also a school team trophy in the 5k event.

The entry fee is £5 for the 5k race and £11 for the 10k race (£2 extra for entries on the day). Both races can be entered online at activetrainingworld.co.uk.

After the success last year following the addition of children’s races, the decision has been taken to run a 500m race for four to six year olds and a 1k race for seven to nine year olds around Anstey Park.

Entry for these races will be on the day only and there will be no charge. The races will take place between 9.45am and 10am. There will be medals for all finishers and other prizes.

Profits from the race are distributed to local charities by Alton Lions.