THE first-ever Devauden 10K will take place on May Bank Holiday Monday around and through the 100 acres of Chepstow Park Woods.

It is entirely off-road on tracks and paths in this area of outstanding natural beauty.

The race is open to anyone 15 or older and there are prizes for all age categories up to 60 plus and for the fastest runners from the three surrounding villages of Devauden, Itton and St Arvans.

There will also be spot prizes.

The event, which starts at 11am on May 7 in the village, has been sponsored by Western Power Distribution, the electricity company which serves Wales.

The organisers hope it will become an annual fixture to raise funds for the Hood Memorial Hall, which holds several highly successful events already including a summer fete, music festival and Bonfire Night.

Chepstow Harriers have agreed to provide a professional timing and results service and medical cover will be provided by the Severn Area Rescue Association.

John Rowlands, chairman of the Hall Committee, said: "We are blessed living in such a wonderful environment and we are delighted to offer runners the opportunity to run around Chepstow Park Woods so they too can enjoy this stunning scenery.

"The Hall is very much part of village life and this event will help support the many activities we hold every year which attract people from near and far."

You can enter the race and check out the route online on http://www.devauden">www.devauden. org.uk/10k or pick up a form from Devauden and St Arvans village shops. Pre-entry is £6 but you can enter on the day for £8.