RUNNERS are set to be tested to the limit in the West Pennines Double Marathon Challenge.

Designed to be as tough as possible, the event consists of two marathons over Saturday and Sunday, March 10 and 11 on demanding courses which incorporate surrounding areas of Bolton.

Runners will start and finish each marathon at Sunnyhurst Woods, Darwen and will take on a variety of difficult terrain.

The trail routes, which include parts of Turton, Rivington and Belmont, have been chosen specifically due to their difficulty, with event organiser Stuart Repon-Ness explaining the challenge is for experienced runners who will be able to handle the test.

The event not only aims to put runners through their paces, but to also get more people running on the local trails, as Stuart believes more people should take advantage of the surroundings in this area.

He said: "The event is about showing people from out of town the beautiful surroundings we have on the moors."

As well as the event being a great opportunity for runners, money is also raised for the Bolton Mountain Rescue Team who will be on standby during the event.

At the end of the race runners can have a post-event massage, the donations from which will go directly to the rescue service.

It costs £50 plus a booking fee to take part and runners can enter online via the event’s website www.howlerevents.com/west-pennines-trail-challenge and are advised to bring suitable race wear and enough water for each race.