One of the UK’s most scenic and beloved running events, the Altra Kielder Marathon, has launched a new initiative to champion women’s safety in running. Titled ‘Stay Out There: She Runs Free’, the campaign aims to improve safety, security and community for female runners across the UK.

The project sees the marathon team up with four high-profile ambassadors - Paula Radcliffe, Sophie Raworth, Nell McAndrew, and Eve Muirhead, as well as the not-for-profit running group BOLDLI, which is dedicated to making running safer through connection.

The new initiative will address one of the most significant barriers to participation in running: safety and security, particularly for women running alone, after dark, or in remote areas. The project will provide participants with expert coaching and resources, a supportive community and safety-first training tools, as they prepare to take on this year’s Altra Kielder Marathon.

Paula Radcliffe commented: “Stay Out There: She Runs Free is more than just an initiative. It’s a call to action to ensure that women get everything that they deserve when they’re out running and training, in terms of safety, security and companionship. To that end, Eve, Nell, Sophie and I will be at the forefront of the project and we look forward to joining the women who sign up during their journey and on the start line of the Altra Kielder Marathon in October.”

BOLDLI co-founder Natasha Edwards added: “This partnership allows us to amplify women’s voices and show what’s possible when safety and community are prioritised.”

Now in its 15th year, the Kielder Marathon takes place in Northumberland’s Kielder Water & Forest Park, with a weekend of events for all ages and abilities. Applications for Stay Out There: She Runs Free are open until 15 June.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Altra Running website.

Image: Events of the North