Runners to be chased by 'zombies' in Lincolnshire 5k race

Organisers hope it will attract people who are not normally interested in running

Zombies are set to chase runners taking part in a race in Lincolnshire.

The 5k Zombie Run at the Lincolnshire Showground, will involve competitors being pursued by actors playing the living dead to keep them running.

Community groups Active Kids Lincolnshire and Off The Bench are supporting the event, taking place on 14 October.

Matthew Gooding, one of the organisers, said he took the idea from seeing similar events in the US.

Zombie Run is based on a story that the dead are rising and attacking the living

"These sorts of things are quite big in the US, so the idea came across from there," he said.

"As well as trying to beat the clock you've also got to worry about obstacles as well as the living dead, who are going to be hot on your heels.

"I think we will attract a lot of people who aren't particularly into running.

"They might not think to enter the Lincoln 10k but they love the idea of zombies."

'Ultimate survivor'

Racers will be given a zombie utility belt containing three tags which represent three lives, and the zombies will try to steal these.

"Their job is to try and whip those off of you," said Mr Gooding.

"If you can manage to finish the race in a great time but also keep three lives intact you will be crowned the ultimate survivor."

As well as the 5k race for adults, a shorter race will be held for 12 to 16-year-olds.

Future events are also planned for Nottingham, Derby and Sheffield in 2013.