THE New Forest Marathon is set to return this year, after being axed over the success of the Bournemouth event.

The popular event was cancelled last year in a move which shocked charities and runners, some of whom feared the event, which had been held for 30 years, would never be put on again.

Organisers blamed rise in costs and drop in entries caused by rival races at the same time of year.

But now, a new team has promised a fresh line up of events including a full and half mara-thon, 5k, 10k and a family race.

The event, on Sunday September 13, will no longer be based in New Milton, with the new location and routes set to be revealed in a few weeks. Taken on by Andy Daish and Chris Farr from Ora Events, their aim is to make the event, which will be run as a commercial venture, as family friendly as possible, enabling more people to enjoy the New Forest.

Chris said: “We want to freshen up the New Forest Marathon and judging by the feedback, this has been welcomed. We want to ensure all the events access the New Forest, which is why we have made some changes.”

A proportion of the profits will be donated to local charities and worthy causes.

Visit newforestmarathon.co.uk