THE popular Chilly Hilly ten-mile cross-country run returns to the wild West Wight for a fourth outing on Sunday.

The sold out run, with 260 entrants, starts and finishes at West Wight Sports and Community Centre, Freshwater, and will take in Tennyson Down, The Needles, Headon Warren and Golden Hill Fort.

The event, sponsored by Love Running, sold out three weeks ago and has grown into a popular fixture on the Isle of Wight’s athletics calendar.

Last year, Matt Sharp won it convincingly in 1.07.38, with Holly Newton the fastest woman in 1.23.24.

All finishers receive a momento, with age group and spot prizes awarded too.

Clare Griffin, manager of the West Wight Sports and Community Centre, said: “We launched the Chilly Hilly because most of our races are in summer and we liked the idea of a winter race, in the run up to Christmas.

“It has a festive theme, with medals in the shape of Christmas mementoes.

"In the past we have had snow globes, baubles and bells. This year’s is extra special and is a closely-guarded secret.

“We are very grateful to Jo and Simon Randall of Love Running, who are hugely supportive of the centre, and work to make the run such a success.

“Last year’s Chilly Hilly was absolutely brutal, with hurricane-force winds. The weather forecast for this weekend is also windy,” said Clare.

The event starts at 11am.