Intrepid runners will take part in a gruelling long-distance run starting in Malvern.

More than 40 competitors will gather at the Abbey Hotel on Sunday for the start of the Britvic Marathon of Britain 2005.

Weighed down with backpacks, runners will scale the Worcestershire Beacon before heading down through Upton, towards the finish at Croome Park.

The 17-mile trek is the first leg of the six-day, 175-mile race finishing in Nottingham on September 9.

Proceeds will go to drug, alcohol and nicotine addiction charity, Action on Addiction.

Val Myatt, chairman of Malvern Hills District Council, will officially start the race in Malvern at 10am.

"This is really good for promoting the town and people taking part can see what wonderful scenery we have to offer," she said.

Race director Rory Coleman said: "This event is the ultimate physical and mental challenge and other marathons look easy in comparison, I can't wait."

Anyone wanting to sponsor a runner should visit www.britvicmarathonof britain.com.