It is the 21st year the event has taken place at the historic National Trust-owned landscape gardens. Last year it attracted more than 90 competitors.

Eddie Gutteridge, Life Vice-President of the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service Sports Association, is the driving force behind the event. This year he has negotiated the use of a new section – for the first time the course will cross the picturesque Palladian Bridge. This will be depicted on the medal that all participants will receive.

This is without doubt one of the best cross-country courses in the country. All members of UK brigades are cordially invited to come and enjoy the special atmosphere that is Stowe.

To visit Stowe is to view part of our historical heritage and to run here is an experience to be remembered.

The five-mile course for men (2.5 mile for women), starting near the Queens Temple in Hawkwell Field, takes the competitors through undulating parkland including gravel paths and bridleways.

Damian Smith
Chief Fire Officer, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service