Runners directed off race route by prankster teens

Most of the runners in the EPIC Aylsham 5km race took the wrong route after signage was moved

Some 425 runners attempting a 5km (3.1 miles) race were sent in the wrong direction after a group of teenagers moved directional signs and cones, organisers said.

The runners were taking part in the annual EPIC Action race for charity, which begins and ends in Aylsham, Norfolk.

Organiser, Steven Hitcham, said: "A lot of cars had to stop to let runners through, which we obviously hadn't anticipated or had any sort of management in place for.

"Luckily, in the end, there wasn't too much traffic about. But it's more the fact that it could have led to something serious."

Some 425 runners took part in the EPIC Aylsham 5km race, which may be declared void

He added: "Unfortunately, a pre-meditated plan by a large group or teenagers, who changed the route with signs and cones, directed people the wrong way just after the 2km (1.2 mile) mark."

The runners were able to rejoin the correct course after the lead cyclist and front runners realised what had happened at about the 3km (1.9 mile) mark, but this led to the route being approximately 5.25km (3.3 mile).

The annual race takes in the Marriott's Way, a footpath, cycle path and bridleway.

Only nine of the 425 runners took the correct route.

The official 5km (3.1 mile) Aylsham run route

The diversion took the runners through a group of about 15-20 teenagers.

"It's just, you know, little kids, teenagers messing around as they do," he said.

"They're not realising what could have happened, the damage that could have been caused."

A community police officer who was running the race would be notifying the police, the race organiser said.

"It’s possible the race results will be void but we will have to consult UK Athletics," he added.

"This evening’s route will now be known as the Alternate EPIC 5km."