NOW in its sixth year, the Farnham Pilgrim Marathon is a firm favourite with runners and the public alike.

In its first year, it won Best New Event in 2010 from Runner’s World magazine and the same magazine puts it among the Top Ten Marathons for 2015.

It has always received positive comments from the runners, who enjoy the challenge of the route through the Surrey countryside, with its fantastic scenery and steep hills, as well as the camaraderie and enthusiastic support from all the marshals and other helpers along the way.

Supported by the Farnham Herald, the event is also a highly successful way of raising funds and this year the nominated charities are The Woodlarks Centre and the Alzheimer’s Society.

The full and half marathon routes both follow footpaths between Farnham and Guildford, sometimes along the Pilgrim’s Way.

It passes several ancient churches along the route, such as St Laurence in Seale and St Martha’s-on-the-Hill (for those doing the full marathon only).

There are also pretty villages, historic pubs, and wonderful views from the tops of the Surrey Hills.

Both the full marathon and the half-marathon on Sunday, September 13, start and finish at The Sands recreation ground opposite the Barley Mow pub, where there will be music from the Farnham Town Band, refreshments and other fun activities.

New this year will be a Family Fun Walk of just over two miles through beautiful Surrey scenery.

Details of how to enter can be found on the website www.farnhampilgrim.org.uk, where much more information about the marathon and half marathon is available.

The event is organised by Farnham Weyside Rotary Club, who provide the marshalling, refreshments around the course and the support and entertainment at the start and finish point.

For more information about Farnham Weyside Rotary Club see the website www.farnhamweyside.org.uk or contact the secretary, Andy Fewster at [email protected].

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