THE countdown is on for Muddy Mayhem – a challenging cross country run that is not for the faint-hearted.

The event, at Hardwick Park in Sedgefield, County Durham, next week, sees runners negotiate a variety of obstacles, including cargo nets, tyres, climbing walls, tunnels, open water, ditches and, of course, mud.

It is one of a growing number of mud runs across the country.

Runners can choose to tackle a 5km or 10km course and awards will be presented to the fastest male and female.

There will also be a post-race party.

Hardwick Park is owned and managed by Durham County Council, which is organising the Muddy Mayhem run on Sunday, March 24.

Andy Niven, manager of the council's countryside service, said: "This is the first mud run of this scale to take place in County Durham and we look forward to welcoming competitors."

The cost of entering is £15 and registration is now open.

Anyone aged over 16 can take part and participants are encouraged to raise money for the Help for Heroes charity.

To register contact Hardwick Park on 01740-621505.