A POPULAR evening running and walking event held on the summer solstice is returning to the Bolton Abbey Estate next month.

The sixth annual Solstice Saunter will take place on the longest day of the year, Tuesday June 21, with people of all ages and abilities running, sauntering or walking a five-mile circular route along the riverside and beautiful woodland paths of the estate.

Organised by the Airedale Dodgers Running Club, the event raises funds for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice. Since its inception, it has raised around £120,000.

JB Springs of Skipton is sponsoring the saunter for the fifth year, alongside new headline sponsor Ecology Building Society, which has been working with organisers to make this year’s event completely free of single-use plastic water bottles.

Ian Rigarlsford, External Affairs Manager at Silsden-based Ecology Building Society, said: “Team Ecology has been taking part since 2017 and this year we hope more colleagues will get involved as runners, walkers or volunteers, supporting the amazing work of Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice. We’re especially thrilled that our sponsorship is helping to reduce single-use plastic and hope that this sets the standard for other events. Good luck and best wishes to everybody participating and raising money for this excellent cause.”

Andrew Wood, Community Fundraising Manager, said: “There’s always an electric atmosphere at the Solstice Saunter and it provides a fun and unique way to come together and welcome in the summer – as well as enjoy the stunning route set against the backdrop of the solstice sunset. What’s more, every pound raised will help Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice continue to provide more care for more people in our community during the most difficult times of their lives.”

The Solstice Saunter starts at 7.30pm on June 21 and everyone who takes part will receive a bespoke medal and free all-day parking at Bolton Abbey estate. There is also a virtual entry option so participants anywhere in the country can run a five mile route of their choice on the longest day to support Sue Ryder.

To register, visit: sueryder.org/solsticesaunter.

For more information about Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, visit: sueryder.org/manorlands.