ONE of Bolton’s major running events of the year has received national recognition.

Bolton Hill Marathon, which takes place this year on June 6, has been voted the sixth best marathon in the UK by readers of the magazine Runner’s World.

Race organiser Phil Eccleston, an experienced sub-2mins 40secs marathon runner with Smithills-based Burnden Road Runners, said: “When you look at the many fabulous marathons run in this country each year, it’s quite something to be in the top six.

“It’s a unique race. That’s why people travel long distances to take part each year. The mix of terrain, climbs and stunning scenery combine to make it a really special experience.

“But despite it being so tough all abilities can take part. It’s a race essentially that celebrates the magnificent scenery and landscapes we have in and around Bolton and it’s worth it just for some of the views at the higher sections. It’s an experience runners never forget – that’s why you see so many coming back year after year to do it.”

The race begins and ends in Moss Bank Park, with a full programme of entertainment and facilities at the event’s tented village. Runners follow the route to Barrow Bridge and up to Colliers Row before heading to the top of Winter Hill, the highest part of the course.

The route heads towards Rivington and Anglezarke via White Coppice and on the way back takes in a climb up to Rivington Pike before skirting back towards Winter Hill and back in to Barrow Bridge and the relief of the finish line in the park.

This year sees a departure from previous races with the marathon being held in the summer instead of spring. It is hoped it means the conditions underfoot – especially over the higher trails – will be more predictable.

The race has been won for the past two years by Charlie Sharpe of the Warrington-based Spectrum Striders club who will be the man to beat again this year. His winning time of 3:03:25 in the Saturday race was a new course record. He is hoping the move to a summer date will mean firmer ground and a chance to dip under the three-hour mark.

Already more than 200 runners have signed up to test themselves to the limit and there’s still time to enter online at www.hillrunner-co.uk.

Eccleston, of Eastwood Close, Bolton, said: “It’s one of those races you need to do at least once so you fully appreciate just how special it is.”