Run, fun and music at castle’s special day

It has to be the world’s oldest fun run. Long before Parkrun came along the owner of Chilham Castle was devising a novelty race to mark his birthday.

The Chilham Chase is still going strong 401 years after Sir Dudley Digges left money in his will for ‘a race run between teams of Gentlemen and Maidens of good character from Chilham and surrounding parishes.’

This year’s two-mile run is on Saturday, July 1 and incorporates fancy dress, jumping over hurdles, a sack race and much more, including a prize for the best costume. Entrants can run or walk around the race route in the castle grounds. The race is at the heart of the Chilham Chase and Chill, a fun-filled day of festivities, including live music, local artisan stalls, lawn games and displays from the Kent Costume’s Trust, the Morgan Club and the Hawking Centre.

Food and drinks will be for sale with a bar supplied by Shepherd Neame and VIP area sponsored by Taittinger. Throughout the afternoon and evening, the North Downs will echo with the sound of music thanks to a great line-up of acts on stage including Sarah-jane Hassell and Javajam, the Maida Vales and the Chillbillies.

Gates open at 11am and the day ends at 11pm. Tickets in advance are £10 for adults, £5 for children and £25 for families (two adults and three children).

There are limited VIP balcony tickets available for up to eight people at £150. Visit www. chilhamchase.com.

Picture: Rachel Pilard The Chillbillies, above, will play at Chilham Castle along with the Maidavales, top right, and Sarah-jane Hassell and Javajam