TRAIL running events and an ultra marathon have been added to the upcoming Somerset and Exmoor Coastal Festival.

The festival, scheduled for September 21 to 29, is put together by the King Charles III England Coast Path team based at Somerset Council, which this year has teamed up with local outdoor events organisers, Channel UK Events CIC to offer new challenges.

The offerings include the 80 Miles in Eight Days walking challenge, starting at Brean Down and ending in Porlock via County Gate.

This year, trail running events have also been included, with a marathon and a 100km Ultra Marathon on September 28.

(Image: Somerset Council)

Both of these races are organised by Channel Events and will wrap up with a lap of Brean Down, the 100km starting in Minehead, and the marathon staring in Bridgwater.

Go to www.somersetcoastfestival.co.uk for more information.

Dan Brice from Channel Events said the response to the new events has been extremely positive.

He said: "We hope this translates into fantastic entry numbers making these a 'must do' 100km ultra and marathon."

The festival aims to highlight the often unseen aspects of Somerset’s coastline, demonstrating its attractiveness to residents and tourists alike.

Organisers are collaborating with tourism and hospitality businesses close to the coast to raise awareness about the region's rich natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage.

Isobel Pring of the Somerset Trail Partnership for the King Charles III England Coast Path said: "We are excited to introduce so many newcomers to our stretch of coast which is rich with geology, wildlife, history and spectacular scenery."

“We already have 60 events on the website and are delighted that the festival is running at the same time as the wonderful Somerset Art Weeks and the fabulous Brean Country and Western Festival, giving visitors a great range of activities to choose from while they are with us.”

Festival goers who wish to walk can participate in the entire 80-mile challenge, or select sections of it.

The festival also offers a variety of other walks, based on themes such as poetry, art, and history, along with night walks and a specific walk for toddlers.

The festival's programme includes a Fuse Fire and Light Trail in Bridgwater on September 21 and an evening of shanty songs with the Barnacle Buoys at Sparkhayes Campsite in Porlock on September 29, followed by a free Fire and Light night walk on Porlock Marshes to finish.