The Poppyscotland Hearts & Heroes Challenge on Saturday 15th May is a 12-hour walk or trail run for teams of four. The fitness challenge has six prize categories: Age 16-18, Mixed (minimum two women) Women Only, Men Only, Fastest Armed Services Team and Fastest Rugby Team.

The 29-mile route commences at the southern end of St Mary’s Loch, working its way along the stunning Southern Upland Way, culminating in the beautiful town of Melrose.

There are three finishes – bronze (12 miles), silver (21 miles) and gold, so that participants of all levels of fitness and ability can aim for a target that suits them.

Participants should check in on the day before, Friday 14th, at the Greenyards in Melrose.. Check-in will be open from 2pm to 11pm.

Participants will set off at staggered start times between 7am and 9am – your individual time will depend on your intended speed, and will be given to you at check-in.

We recommend that each team organises its own manned support vehicle, which will be responsible for dropping the team off at the start, meeting at checkpoints and at the finish. The route will be well signposted and marshalled and you will only have to go a few miles before you find a water-stop well-stocked with food, refreshments and plenty of encouragement.

The party!

Participants, support teams and families can enjoy an evening of entertainment at the Greenyards rugby ground. There will be a sumptuous feast, open from the afternoon, followed by live music, a busy bar and prizegiving.