DESPITE the annual Three Bridges Races in Peebles being cancelled this year, families are being asked to go the distance for the NHS.

Due to coronavirus-related restrictions, the whistle was blown on the mass event which had been due to take place on Sunday.

However, Peebles PE teacher Richard Edge has found a way over that hurdle and says people can still take part.

He explained: “Due to the current situation and the subsequent cancellation of numerous sporting events, I have no doubt that many of our young athletes will be missing a little bit of competition.

"I would like to invite anyone to run the equivalent distance of the infamous ‘Three Bridges Race’ which is 1.5 miles/2.5k.”

Entry is free but competitors are being invited to make a donation through a fundraising page for the NHS.

The Priorsford Primary teacher says the route does not have to cover the bridges.

“In fact I would only suggest running this route if very early in the morning or later in the evening," he said.

"It’s very important that you adhere to the current social distancing guidelines.

“It’s quite good fun working out a route, so work together with older family members and create one that suits you."

This year, however, there will not be any gold medals being doled out. “The winner will receive absolutely nothing – just the joy of being part of the first virtual Three Bridges," said Mr Edge.

Families can also take part in a team event, the teacher explained.

“As we are spending longer with kids, a family run may be fun,” Mr Edge said. "A group of three or more people can do a run and finish together. Your family timed run should be titled ‘3 bridges virtual family run’."

Just as would-be competitors are being asked not to drive to their start lines, they are also being urged to obey social distancing rules when out running.

Mr Edge said: “Be considerate to other people by keeping a minimum of 2m distance at all times when passing. Runs must be completed solo, unless you are running as a family."

Entrants are asked to submit their finishing times online before May 10.

Mr Edge said: “Some people will have access to a watch that will be able to time the run and will be linked to something like Strava/map my run. If you do not have a watch, use a smart phone with one of the running apps open and record it that way."

Once you have recorded your run, you are invited to title it ‘3 bridges virtual run’, take a screen shot and email it to: Gw09edgerichard@glow.sch.uk, including your name and year of birth.

Mr Edge added: “A selfie at the finish of your run would be pretty cool. I will then try and use the information to create final results.”

If you would like to make a donation to the NHS, visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/RichardEdge7