Cornwall's Eden Project holds annual half-marathon and marathon in October

Runners of all ages are getting ready for the Eden Marathon and Half Marathon, which returns on Sunday, October 19, including the oldest and youngest entrants so far, with nearly 60 years between them.

The Eden Marathon and Half Marathon, which started in 2009, attracts runners from far and wide with its multi-terrain route that takes competitors through a spectacular landscape encompassing the dramatic clay trails and views of both the Cornish countryside and the coast.

This year, the youngest competitor is Will Holmes from Newquay, who turns 18 on the day of the event, while the oldest is Phillip Allbutt, aged 74 from Plymouth. Phillip took part in Eden's half marathon last year, but decided to take on the full marathon this year, along with his two sons, and plans to involve the third generation of the family in 2015.

The Eden half marathon will be the first major race for keen runner Will. He said: "Eden is a great place to do my first half marathon and the race falls on the same day as my birthday, which will be a brilliant way to celebrate turning 18."

Phillip has been running for many years and enjoys a variety of challenging races. He said: "I have run more than 50 marathons and half marathons, but I really enjoy the Eden Marathon as the mixed terrain and beautiful scenery means it's not like an ordinary race."

During the marathon, friends and family will be given free admission to Eden and the opportunity to explore Biomes and outdoor gardens before cheering on the runners as they cross the finish line in the heart of the Eden site.

On the evening before the event, Saturday October 18, runners will also be invited to a special pasta party at Eden at 6pm, where they can stock up on essential carbs and socialise with other athletes.

All finishers will receive a themed medal and a t-shirt along with a well-deserved pasty and a pint after they cross the finish line, while the winners will receive prizes of £250 for the marathon and £200 for the half marathon.

Entry to the Marathon costs £28 for affiliated runners and £30 for unaffiliated runners, while the half marathon costs £23 for affiliated runners and £25 for unaffiliated runners.

edenproject.com/visit-us/whats-on/other-activities/eden-marathon-and-half-marathon