THE Royal British Legion in Gwent will hold the fifth annual Great Gwent Poppy Run.

Taking place on Sunday 25 October, this is the main fundraising event for the county organised in aid of The Poppy Appeal.

This year the event is in a new format with a military theme under the heading of Military Madness, at a new venue Tank School in Usk.

The competitors will be marched to the start point from the registration area by the Drums of the Corps of Drums of the 3rd Battalion The Royal Welsh, as they prepare themselves for the obstacles of this challenging cross country course through the fields, mud and woods of Tank School, Usk.

The course is using the military theme, recognising the great battles and names in our Welsh history.

They will crawl under the wire defences and run for the cover of Mametz woods.

Military Madness will require sweat and effort needed to dash the 700 metres of no man’s land, to reach the cover of the hedgerow and woodland of Mametz woods.

Then, through the smoke, scaling the muddy banks and following the path through the woods before breaking cover for the challenging hills of Usk countryside. Where more obstacles await as they make their way around before they enter the water obstacle of Rorkes Drift.

Having cleared the woods and river, it’s into the challenge of the mine field exiting to a no cover run for freedom, home and safety.

All who complete the course will get a free specially designed and unique technical tee-shirt plus goodie bag.

Organisers are hoping to attract 200 individuals and teams of youth organisations who will be competing for the Great Gwent Poppy Run Youth Shield.

The event organiser and County Poppy Appeal Coordinator, Mike Jones said: "I am really excited that we have this brand new event with over 160 registered plus our youth teams, this is the most we have had helping us raise essential funds for the Poppy Appeal. As the Custodians of Remembrance.

"The Royal British Legion ensures the memories of those the ultimate sacrifice for their country will live on. As the UK’s leading Service Charity, we ensure that today’s Forces families will live on with hope for a better future”