ENTRIES are now open for a popular running race around Basingstoke town centre.

Destination Basingstoke has launched entries for the Croudace Festival 5k, due to take place on April 3.

This year the organisers and sponsors are announcing new initiative to make the race more sustainable. Instead of giving a free T-shirt, a tree will be planted for every runner.

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It is hoped that the initiative will not only save the possible waste but will have a positive impact on the climate emergency.

Russell Dennis, managing director at Croudace Homes, said: “We are excited by this new development of the race, and are proud to help Basingstoke lead the way in making responsible choices. We believe that most people participate in the race because of the fantastic atmosphere, now we can add to that the satisfaction that we are all doing just a little bit to help our environment.”

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The race will start and finish in Festival Square and there will be a rolling start to assist with social distancing and the race course takes a loop around the town centre – including the Top of Town, Glebe Gardens, Basing View and Eastrop Park.

Places are limited and it often sells out, so runners are encouraged to enter soon. Entry is open to all runners aged 13 and above.

Enter at www.destinationbasingstoke.co.uk/festival5.

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