RUNNERS from around the UK will descend on Peebles this weekend, ahead of the first Tweed Valley Tunnel Trail Run.

Taking place on the morning of Saturday, October 1, the sold out event has delighted organisers who are already making plans for next year.

There are two routes for runners to choose from, 10k or 20k, and both take in rivers, hills and of course the disused railway tunnel, which is being illuminated by installation lighting specialists, Black Light.

Due to the level of interest, organisers are hoping to run a separate opportunity for a 'tunnel walk’ next year. 

It has been confirmed that due to safety considerations it will not be possible for anyone except the runners and event crew to enter the tunnel while the lights on/during the event this weekend. 

Neil Dalgleish, Event Director of the Peebles-based event production company, Hillside Outside said: “We are really pleased to have sold out our first running event, and are delighted that people are coming from all over the UK to Peebles – we’re sure they will love the beautiful countryside of the Tweed Valley. 

“We are sorry that we can’t offer the opportunity for non-runners to walk through the tunnel, but if all goes to plan this time, it’s definitely something we’d try and work out for next year, subject to the agreement of landowners and Scottish Natural Heritage."

For those not taking part in the run, but want to see the tunnel lit up, there's still a chance to join the event crew, and all marshals will get the chance for a ‘behind the scenes’ walk through the illuminated tunnel."

Volunteers will just need to marshal for a few hours on Saturday morning. 

Neil added: “It’s nothing difficult, and actually good fun. We just need extra eyes and ears on the course to make sure everything goes smoothly.

"We're very grateful to Wemyss and March Estate, Black Light, Odlo, Findra and Improvemyrunning.com for their support."

For anyone interested in helping out and being part of the action on Saturday, email: office@hillsideoutside.com.