A POPULAR road race taking place in Dalry is now open for entries.

The 12km long Skirt the Skeith event will be taking place on Sunday, June 23, with the starter's gun set to be fired at 10am.

The event, sponsored by DSM-Firmenich, has been organised through the town's community development hub and Dalry Sports Club, and is open to all in the local community and surrounding areas.

Those wishing to enter must be aged 17 or older and the raced will be limited to 200 runners - so those will to take part will have to be quick off the mark.

The event will be supporting the local food larder this year and all those who are partaking are being asked to donate a tin on the day of they are able.

The race itself will start at Dalry Public Park before runners head up Blair Road, around Auchinskeith, along the walls of the Historic Blair House and back to the park.

It is a hilly, scenic route and uses some narrow roads, therefore will be unable to accommodate walkers or dogs.

The road will not be shut during the race, so runners require to be vigilant.

The route will be well marked and there will be marshals at road crossings and other key points along the route. Competitors are also being asked not to wear headphones during the race.

There are limited toilets within the sports pavilion and a 'drop a bag' area, however this is not lockable and is left at your own risk.

A BBQ will also be held following the race offering meat and vegan burgers to all competitors.

There will be cash prizes for first and second female, first and second male as well as first and second veteran male and female. There will be spot prizes on the day donated by local businesses.

All runners will receive a medal - made by the local Men's Shed - and a goodie bag at the end of the race. 

Entry to the race comes at a cost of £14. Those wishing to take part can enter online at tinyurl.com/SkirtTheSkeith.