HUNDREDS of competitors are set to get stuck in the mud as Maldon’s world famous race returns.

The Maldon Mud Race 2018 will take place in Promenade Park on June 10.

Racing starts at 2.30pm with a whole host of other entertainment to keep spectators occupied.

This year there will be a funfair and live music.

Chairman of the race, Brian Farrington, said: “The day involves nearly 12 months of pre-planning and there are always a few surprises.

“As the event grows, we are expanding our offering to include our duck race, fancy dress competition for competitors plus a wide range of stalls with snacks and promotional gifts.

“There are still a few last places for both competitors and exhibitors so please do visit our website to join in the race or showcase your business with a stand.

“Last year saw nearly 20,000 people attend the event so we are hoping to raise even more money for the charities.”

Charities benefiting this year include Brainwave, Little Haven’s Children’s Hospice, the David Randall Foundation, The Cinnamon Pets Trust, Maldon and District Sea Cadets, Farleigh Hospice, Maldon Carers, Buddies Pre-School Maldon and the Daniel Wilkinson Fund.

Money collectors this year will be wearing t-shirts with a text-to-donate mobile number on them as well as holding buckets.

Sponsors for the event include Steven Eagell Toyota, Essex and Suffolk Water, BBC Essex, the Queens Head pub and others.

The race originated in 1973 when the landlord of the Queens Head pub was dared to serve a meal on the saltings of the River Blackwater dressed in a dinner jacket.

The challenge was carried out and the next year, a bar was opened on the saltings.

About twenty people made a mad dash across the river bed, drank a pint of beer and dashed back, starting the tradition.

For more details and to apply for the race, www.maldonmudrace.com.