HUNDREDS of real ale enthusiasts are expected to run across the heart of Dartmoor in celebration of its people and landscape at the first ever Dartmoor Brewery Big Hash.

The non-competitive cross-country run, sponsored by Britain's highest brewery, is due to take place on Saturday, June 29, and will see participants run or walk an 18-mile course, stopping for refreshment at five Dartmoor pubs en route.

Runners will set off at 11am from the Plume of Feathers in Princetown, visiting supporting pubs The Royal Oak, Burrator Inn, Walkhampton Inn and The Dartmoor Inn before returning to Princetown by 5.30pm. A subsidised bar will be available at the Plume of Feathers after the event, with entertainment from local band The Avatars from 7pm.

Event organiser, Andrew Woodward, of Stannary Hash House Harriers said: 'This is the first time this event has been run and we would like to thank Dartmoor Brewery for their sponsorship. We are expecting a good turnout of around 100 runners and hope the hash will go on to become a classic event in the Dartmoor calendar.'

Mark Shackleton, head of direct sales at Dartmoor Brewery said: 'The Dartmoor Brewery Big Hash is a fantastic opportunity for runners to enjoy five pints of locally-brewed real ale while taking in the beautiful scenery of the moor.'

Entry for individuals costs £15 and £10 for each additional person in a team. For more information and to download an entry form visit http://www.stanary.org">www.stanary.org