New Forest Marathon 'back home' in the national park at New Park in Brockenhurst next year

ORGANISERS of the New Forest Marathon are “absolutely delighted” after confirming it will return to the heart of the national park next year.

The 2020 and 2021 marathons had to be relocated to St Giles house in Wimborne after Forestry England issued a blanket ban on events being held in forests due to the pandemic.

Chris Farr, a director of ORA Events which organises the race, told the A&T: “It is back where it belongs."

He said: "The New Forest has been its home for over 30 years, next year will be our 38th anniversary.

“It is great to be back. We are so looking forward to it.”

Although the St Giles races were successful, numbers had to be curtailed due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Organisers said they are expecting up to 5,000 runners to take part in the full marathon next year, which is due to be held on 11th September at New Park, Brockenhurst.

Chris said: “We think everyone will just be so delighted to be able to take part in the marathon in the Forest again. It has such a special atmosphere.

“We are aiming to have seven events: a woodland walk, a junior 200-metre and one-mile race, a 5k, 10k, half-marathon and full marathon.

“All routes will start and finish from New Park showground in Brockenhurst and wind through the national park.”

There is planned to be live music in the daytime, food and drink stalls, plus camping. The event will run from 7am to 5pm.

Over the last 38 years the marathon has raised more than £1.33m for local good causes.

Runners on social media were quick to congratulate the New Forest marathon organisers for getting the event back on track.

One said: “Excellent news, guys!” while another commented: “St Giles was great but tough terrain. Happy for this to be back next year. Can’t wait."