Thousands of walkers expected to take part in Wellingborough's Waendel weekend

This weekend’s event is expected to attract about 5,000 participants, with people coming from as far away as Australia and Russia.

The Waendel Walk, the only event of its kind in the UK, kicks off on Friday evening with two friendship walks of 5km and 10km followed by a weekend of different routes ranging from 5km up to a marathon-distance of 42km.

Julia Wells, events officer at Wellingborough Council, said: “The Waendel Walk is a truly international event and attracts walkers from all over the world.

“We’ve had more than 1,500 people register in advance so far, including more than 130 people from Belgium, as well as high numbers from Germany, Italy, Ireland, Spain, Denmark, China and a couple from Australia.

“We always get a large number of people joining us from Holland as well.

“This obviously has a really positive effect on the local economy, with hotels, guest houses and shops all getting a big boost in trade.

“People like taking part in the walks because we have some stunning countryside that people may not have explored before.

“As well as our overseas participants, we also have people from all over the UK taking part and even if they’re from right here in Wellingborough they’re still amazed by the beautiful scenery we have on our doorstep.

“There’s so much to do during the Waendel Weekend – walking, swimming, short strolls, longer walks through villages, along roads or off the beaten track, routes that are wheelchair and buggy-friendly, free entertainment – there really is something for absolutely everyone.

“We have families, young children, friends and colleagues taking part and the event always has a really friendly atmosphere.”

Online booking for Waendel events closes at 5pm on Thursday, May 12.

Registration starts again from midday on Friday in the main hall at The Castle.

For more information, go to www.wellingborough.gov.uk or contact Julia at [email protected].