PREPARATIONS for the first Kingston Lacy Running Festival near Wimborne, are gathering pace prior to the launch in June.

The family sporting event aims to appeal to people of all ages and levels of ability with a 5k and a 10k run, a half marathon, and a family fun run.

Rob Greenhalgh, outdoor experience co-ordinator at Kingston Lacy, said they hoped it would become an annual event.

“We have been looking at ways to get visitors to experience the estate in a different way rather than just focusing on the house,” he explained.

“We have more than 8,500 acres and 72 miles of footpaths and droves, so this is just the sort of event we are keen to support.”

Votwo director Ben Mason said he hoped to expand the festival over the next five years to include food stalls, music, fitness talks and demos.

“We ran a pilot 5k and 10k race alongside a cycling event here last year, which proved to be very popular.

“We already have more than 100 people signed up for the half marathon.”

Ben added: “This is a fantastic and truly British venue – we hope to get everyone involved.

Claire Smith and her son Jake, 11, from Christchurch, are both taking part in the event.

“It is such a lovely flat course which is good if you are a beginner or if you are looking for a personal best time,” said Claire.

The event on June 9 includes free entry to the grounds for spectators and families plus a large undercover area in case of rain. Medals will be awarded to each finisher.