FOUR hundred runners converge on Richmond on Sunday for what has been described as the toughest 10-kilometre road run in the country.

The event, which traces a circular route from the castle via Mercury Bridge, Holly Hill and Easby, has attracted competitors from across the north-east.

Organised by Mr Norman Bell, chairman of Swaledale Road Runners, the race aims to raise £1,000 for the Easby footpath restoration campaign.

"Over the years we have raised thousands of pounds for charities, including Children in Need, the Richmond Victoria hospital, the St John centre at Catterick and the Breathing Space fund at Northallerton," said Mr Bell.

"Part of the reason we chose the Easby footpath appeal this year is that the Easby loop by the river is one of our regular runs and we want to see it repaired and the river bank stabilised."

The run, now in its seventh year, was described by Mr Ron Hill, whose son runs the Hilly sports clothing company, as one of the toughest 10k events in the country. Sections which particularly tax competitors include the steep Holly Hill and the long, slow pull up the Brompton road from Easby back to the finish.

Ron Hill will miss the run for the first time as he will be abroad, but Coun Tom Burrows, the deputy mayor of Richmond, has agreed to present the prizes - as well as taking part in the run.

Mr Bell thanked all who helped with the event, including local PC Sue Dent who will lead the runners on her mountain bike, Pawlicki's jewellers who donate the trophies and English Heritage, which allows use of the castle.

The course record is held by Mr Alan Shepard, who completed it in 31mins 42secs in 1997. There are prizes for the first 20 men and first ten women home and every finisher will also receive a gift.