Ref. 27934YOUNG runners in Bratton are gearing up for a cross-country race they hope will raise over £1,000 for the village primary school.

This year's Bratton Hilly Run takes place on May 15 and organisers, Friends of Bratton School, are looking for sponsorship from businesses. The event has already proved popular in the past, but the Friends are hoping for their best fundraising year yet.

While pupils from Bratton Primary School will compete in a mini 1km race, the main course is an 11km up and down run. The race is the centrepiece of a day with a fete on the village green and a celebratory barbecue afterwards.

The starting pistol fires at 11am when around 100 runners head up to the White Horse and back to the village via Imber Road. The leading competitors return around the 45-minute mark with the final runners usually back by 12.30pm.

Dave Waller, of Friends of Bratton School, said: "We are looking for a big company to come on board for us to raise up to £1,000.

"All the local clubs take part and some runners come from as far away as Leicester.

"The run is our biggest fundraising event of the year and all money raised goes to the school."

For sponsorship information call Dave Waller on 07989 583916. To enter call Dot Reeves on (01380) 830987.