HUNDREDS of hardy runners will be adding headtorches to their sports attire this summer to take part in Great Bromley’s first 24-hour runathon.

The event, organised by the Harwich Runners, will see participants run, jog or walk the five-mile off-road loop either solo, in pairs or as part of a team of up to eight people.

Held on a farm just off the A120, the runathon will be mentally as well as physically challenging.

Race director Stephen Burbidge said: “There are quite a few of these events happening up and down the country – I had the idea to host one for a few months and then Harwich Runners said to run with it.

“We held a similar event in 1999 for the millennium, but not timed like this one will be.”

Solo runners and those in pairs will be able to take time off the course during the 24- hours for rests.

But the bigger teams will have a member of the team on the course at all times.

The event will start at noon on August 29 and will carry on through the night, with runners using headtorches to light their way around the field.

Stephen added: “We’re hoping to to get between 300 and 500 people taking part, and if it goes well, we want to make it an annual event.

“There will be camping for three nights, stands, food and we are hoping people will just turn up to come and see it.”

Hot showers and a free massage will also be on offer to help runners make it through the event.

For those unable to make 24 hours, a 12-hour runathon will also be held – also starting at noon on August 29, but will finish at midnight.

Entry costs from £75 for a solo entrant to £300 for a team of eight.

To sign up, visit harwich runners.co.uk/hr24