ENTRIES are now being accepted for the Alton Downland Challenge. The 5k and 10k trail race is set to take place on Sunday, October 2, starting and finishing at Anstey Park.

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

The 10k event starts at 10.30am and goes over the Holybourne Down and 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 of various age categories in both races. There is also a school team trophy in the 5k event.

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 via www.activetrainingworld.co.uk

After the success of last year’s children’s races, a 500m race for four to six year olds and 1k race for seven to nine year olds will take place within the 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, as well as other prizes.

This year’s Downland Challenge is supported by Bottega Dei Sapori and Alton Sports.

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