A POPULAR East Cornwall school cross-country league will go ahead this year despite concerns that the event could come to an end.

The East Cornwall Harriers Primary School Cross-Country League will return this autumn after a group of volunteers stepped forward to ensure the much-loved series continues.

Some 37 schools took part in the league last year, with hundreds of children and their families turning out for the races.

However, the future of the competition was left uncertain after long-standing organiser Revis Crowle announced at the end-of-season presentation that she was stepping down after running the series for several years.

Now volunteers from East Cornwall Harriers have taken on the challenge of keeping the league alive. They say the races are about much more than competition, providing children with an opportunity to get active, represent their schools and enjoy events alongside friends, classmates and families.

The first race of the new season will take place at Great Trethew on Friday, October 16, with further dates and locations to be announced.

The new organising committee has also used the changeover to make a number of changes to the format, while keeping the event familiar to schools that have supported it over the years.

Each race will cover approximately 1.1 miles, roughly the same distance as a junior parkrun.

There will be four or five races across the academic year, with the series continuing into the summer term. Each race will also become a standalone event, meaning every child who completes a race will receive a certificate, while the top three finishers will be presented with bespoke medals.

Overall team awards are being dropped from the competition.

The changes are aimed at making the events more manageable to organise, particularly with around 500 enthusiastic children potentially taking part.

Organisers are keen to build on the legacy left by Revis, while ensuring the league remains an enjoyable experience for children, schools and families.

The series will once again have the support of The Cornish Times and Parkes & Pearn, who are continuing as title sponsors.

Organisers are also looking for local businesses to sponsor individual races, with sponsorship helping to keep the events running and providing opportunities for local children.

East Cornwall Harriers will also continue its tradition of supporting local good causes, with Penhaligon’s Friends named as this year's chosen charity.

Penhaligon’s Friends supports children and families facing the death of a parent or sibling, as well as those living with bereavement.

Volunteers are being sought to help keep the popular cross-country series running, with schools asked to provide a member of staff or a parent/carer to assist at one race during the year. Roles will include marshalling, handing out certificates and helping with the smooth running of events. Organisers will group schools together where possible to ensure the responsibility is shared fairly and does not become an additional burden.

Local businesses are also being encouraged to get involved by sponsoring an individual race. Anyone interested should contact [email protected].