A LONG-running tradition returns to Ponteland on New Year’s Day.

The annual Ponteland wheelbarrow race has been running for more than 700 years and has become a key date in the town’s calendar.

All the money raised will go to two charities – Tynedale Hospice at Home and St Oswald’s Hospice.

Adult teams pay £10 to enter, while children’s teams pay £5, and spectators are encouraged to make a donation. Participants are also encouraged to dress up in fancy dress.

The route follows a circular race course just under a mile long which takes around eight minutes, for most teams to complete.

Beginning at midday, the dash starts at the Blackbird Inn in Ponteland and sees people working in teams of two to push each other in a wheelbarrow along the course with team members switching half way through the race.

The event is organised by Ponteland 41 Club and Ponteland Rugby Club. John Morris, chairman of Ponteland 41 Club, said: “Our prime objective is to organise and run a safe event to the enjoyment of the general public and participants alike.

“St Oswald’s Hospice and Tynedale Hospice at Home are well-respected local charities which offer an invaluable service to the community of all ages and are well worthy of our support.”

Stuart Young of the Blackbird Inn added: “The atmosphere is great. Our community comes together and it’s fantastic to see so many people turn up and enjoy themselves for such great causes.”

To complete an entry form visit https://tynedalehospice.com/life-list-ponteland-wheelbarrow-race/