Shepton Mallet residents are being invited to lace up their trainers – or walking boots – for The Runaway Train, a unique community event celebrating the town's scenic Windsor Hill railway path on Sunday 4 May 2025.

The event features an 8½-mile and 3-mile trail race taking in stunning countryside, wooded valleys, historic tunnels and high viaducts, before finishing with a lively boxty lunch in Shepton Mallet's market place. And if running's not your thing, there's still plenty of reason to get involved.

Walkers and families are welcome to follow the marked routes, either tackling the full circuit with an early start, or joining the shorter, easier 3-mile stroll to Ham Woods viaduct and back. There's no charge to walk the marked routes, and everyone's encouraged to return to the market place by 12 noon to enjoy the festivities.

Event organisers are hoping to see the whole town turn out to support the day – whether on the trails, lining the route to cheer people on, or sharing lunch with friends and neighbours.

The full Runaway Train trail race is a rugged 8½-mile route with 1,200ft of climb, offering spectacular views and a varied course. From Windsor Hill Woods to Maesbury Castle, runners will follow tracks and trails, finishing with the thrilling run through Windsor Hill tunnel and over the Bath Road viaduct.

There's also a gentler 3-mile race for those wanting to take it a bit easier, still offering woodland paths and railway views.

Runners must book in advance via Race Nation. Under 16s can join for £1.50, but must be accompanied by an adult. Entry for the adult 8½-mile race is £20 (£15 early bird), and £15 for the 3-mile option. Lunch is also by advance ticket only, at £7 for adults or £5 for children.

All profits from the day will go to local community groups involved in the event, including the Friends of Windsor Hill, who have spent years clearing and maintaining the railway path.

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Organisers said: "This isn't just a run – it's a day for Shepton. Come and join us, however you like. Walk, run, cheer, eat – it's all about celebrating our green spaces, supporting local volunteers, and coming together as a community."

For more information or to register, visit runawaytrain.org.uk or email [email protected].