Looking for a challenge this spring? How about taking on a 5K run which will take you through a wild animal park?

The Howletts Spring 5K is a gentle run through the park near Canterbury, where runners could get a glimpse of the animals, including a new elephant calf.

The event on Sunday, March 29 will raise funds for the Aspinall Foundation, which runs Howletts and Port Lympne reserve.

Last year the charity, which is the charity of the year for Kent Online, KMTV and Kentish Gazette this year, rescued 11 elephants, four giraffes, 24 wildebeest and 18 buffalo from a reserve struggling desperately with severe drought and very little food.

The animals were relocated to new reserves where they are now well fed, watered and protected.

This year the charity is raising funds for its South Africa Emergency Fund to ensure the future of many other elephants and African wildlife that are in need of rescue.

Funds raised from taking part in the Howletts Spring 5K you will go towards the vital conservation work and saving wildlife from extinction.

The 5K run both starts and finishes at the event village on the grass outside of the main park so it's a great spot for spectators to join us for free - so runners can bring their families and friends.

Registration starts at 8am, with the race starting at 9.30am on the day.

Entry is £16 to £18, with a recommended fundraising target of £50.

The minimum age for the 5K is 11, but there is also a 1K Kids Run starting at 10.30am. which you can sign up for on the day.

Prizes and fundraising Incentives including free park entry tickets and all entrants get an elephant medal and chip timing.

There will be stalls, food and drink and entertainment at the event village. Sign up at aspinallfoundation.org

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