RUNNERS have a month to hone their training ahead of a half marathon on at times rugged terrain, against a backdrop of dramatic coastal scenery.

The National Trust’s third annual Durham Coast Half Marathon, on Sunday June 7, follows a challenging 13.1-mile route from Seaham to Crimdon Dene.

Following the course of the Durham Heritage Coast trail, with several steep flights of steps and frequent inclines and declines, it is considered a test for even the hardiest of runners.

Organiser, National Trust ranger Wayne Appleton, said with spring now here and the much lighter nights it brings, competitors should be perfecting their training, even taking in stretches of the route to familiarise themselves to the course, prior to the race.

“It’s a great time to be out running on the Durham coast.

“I’m lucky, I get to work here a lot, but I make sure I get out for a run as often as I can too. I love it”

“The steps up to the cliffs are tough going, but the sense of achievement and the views from the top make it worth the effort, despite the wobbly legs!”

Entry can be made via www.raceentry.co.uk, for a charge of £16.

Minibus transfer will be available from the finishing line, back to the start area, at Nose’s Point, but must be booked as part of the race entry.

The event is staged by the trust to raise much-needed funds, as well as to showcase what is now considered an outstanding stretch of coastline, a far cry from the dark days of the once coal-blacked beaches that were a legacy of the former mining industry which dominated the east Durham area until the last two decades.

All profits from the half marathon will go to the conservation fund to care for the local coast and countryside.