ONE of Wiltshire's oldest 5,000 metre runs will be staged on July 8 in a village near Devizes.

The Bishops Cannings 5,000 metre dash has been held as part of the church fete for the past 35 years and in the past has attracted well known athletes including skeleton bob Olympic medallist Shelley Rudman.

Churchwarden Peter Russ said: "A church fete has been held at Bishop’s Cannings since the 1970s to raise funds for the fabric of the Grade 1 listed parish church. The event has evolved over the years from a small gathering held in the vicarage garden to a much larger scale event held at the primary school.

"For the last 35 years the fete has incorporated a 5000 m dash organised by Frankie Goddard. Many runners have developed their sporting careers from initially competing in this race."

This year the fete is being called a village fun day and a number of new attractions have been added including a steam engine, farm vehicles, an animal petting area and pony rides. Children will also take part in country dancing and there will be displays of fencing and martial arts

Mr Russ said: "The organising committee has worked hard this year to update the event and provide something for all the family.”

The fun day opens at 2pm and entry is free. To enter the dash go to www.bishopscannings5000m.org.uk Entry costs £8 for adults and £4 for those 12 and under.