Durham Wildlife Trust is seeking ramblers and runners to take part in two events as a way of raising funds for its vital work.
The first event is the Sunderland 3 Peaks on June 22 between 10:30 am – 1:00pm, beginning at Tunstall Hills.
Walkers will enjoy the views and climbs of Tunstall Hills, Herrington Hill and Penshaw Hill over a route of approximately eight miles.
On the way, they will meet expert guides on Herrington Hill, the Trust’s newest Sunderland Nature Reserve, who will offer an insight into its importance for flora and fauna, including the spectacular display of wildflowers which adorn the reserve.
The walk will finish at Penshaw Tearooms. Durham Wildlife Trust will run a Minibus shuttle service from Herrington Country Park to the start of the walk. Walkers can enter for £8 per person or £15 per couple and dogs on leads are welcome.
The second event is the annual Run Rainton on Saturday August 17 at the Trust’s flagship Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve near Houghton le Spring.
Beginning at 10.30am, the 5k Trail Fun Run will take participants over a challenging circuit of Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, including Nicholson’s Hill.
Advanced entry for the run is available for £10, places must be booked in advance, runners will not be able to join on the day. Ages 6+ are welcome, under 14s must be accompanied by an adult. There will also be stalls including tombola and cake sales, fundraising for the Trust on the day.
The entry fees to Sunderland 3 Peaks and Run Rainton go directly to Durham Wildlife Trust, enabling the charity to manage Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve as well as 36 other Nature Reserves from the Tees up to the Tyne.
Trust Membership Development Officer Emily Routledge, herself a keen runner, said: “These events are a lot of fun and give people an opportunity to get out into the open air and appreciate our spectacular flora and fauna.”
You can find out more about both events at www.durhamwt.com/events