Families are invited to get active and enjoy a fun - and free - outdoor challenge together on Saturday, October 21 at Mote Park, Maidstone.

All participants need to do is run or walk a mile and even pets are welcome to join in the fun. And for under-16s, there’s an added incentive: if they can do it in less than ten minutes, they’ll win a small cash prize which they can either keep or give to charity at the end.

The Mason Mile is a fully inclusive event, open to people of all ages and abilities but with a particular focus on children and those with a physical or mental disability. With this in mind, the course has also been designed to be wheelchair friendly.

Organised by local entrepreneur Stephen Mason, founder of The Mason Foundation, the event aims to promote the benefits that exercise can bring to leading a healthier lifestyle.

As a thalidomide sufferer with acute dyslexia, Stephen is aware of the challenges that people with disadvantages have to overcome on a daily basis, and is passionate about helping people to make a positive difference to their lives.

“We believe that it is possible for everyone to be able to walk and run a mile and we are keen to use our skills and resources to encourage families and young people to come together to have fun, get active and achieve their best in a friendly and supportive environment,” he said.

The Mason Mile is supported by Golding Vision, the community arm of Kent Housing Association Golding Homes, and has been praised by leading children’s charity the KM Charity Team.

Simon Dolby, chief executive of the KM Charity Team, said: “The work we do is all about encouraging children to get moving and live a healthy lifestyle, as well as celebrating their accomplishments in a variety of areas. This is a great way to do both of those things.”

He added: “I would urge anyone to take part in the Mason Mile on Saturday. It’s not only something the whole family can enjoy, but also encourages children to think of others as they have the opportunity to give their winnings away to those in need.”

Families can sign up for free by visiting The Mason Mile website at www.themasonmile.com. Follow @themasonmile or @goldingvision

The race starts at 10am on Saturday following a five minute warm up, with registration from 8.30am.