For hundreds of brave benighted souls there's only one place to be in Maldon on a certain day around Christmas - up to their necks in the muddy bed of the river Blackwater

The annual Maldon mud race is a local event which, once a year, thanks to extensive media coverage puts Maldon on the global map.

All you have to do is race from one side of the river bank to the other, sprint along the far back and then make your way back across the river again).

It sounds easy enough but there's a lot of mud, not mention water flowing, to navigate.
Should you wish to have a go and emerge to tell the tale here's a survivors guide to the mud race.

Michael Ballard event secretary says: "You have to be fairly fit and up for a laugh remember its all in aid of charity.

Don't ever wear clothes you want to wear again. Footwear must be taped on otherwise it will get sucked off.

The art is to get to the front where you have a chance of a clear run. At the back the mud is churned up and you can get trampled on and buried.

Seriously, on the safety front there are marker posts to indicate which way to go and stewards stationed in the river bed just in case. We haven't lost anyone yet. Everyone who goes in comes out -eventually.

John Crellin (long time competitor) advises: If you happen to be super fit and extra light go for it. Sprint from the start and keep going - best of luck to you. On the other hand you may feel like collapsing into the mud after a few strides. Don't worry, progressing on all fours may not be that dignified but it certainly gets you there and back.

Martin Buxton of Colchester, a first timer is looking forward to the challenge: "Hopefully I'll get round in one piece. I intend to undertake some strict training over Christmas."

The town's Rotary and Lions clubs joined forces to organise the event three years ago and last year raised over £16,000 for local charities. which draws a large crowd, who watch from the dry banks of the town's Promenade Park.

This year there are three charities supported by the mud race; Essex Air Ambulance, Farleigh Hospice New Building Fund and St John Ambulance (Maldon division)

The actual day of the race varies each year depending on tidal conditions. This year's race it is set for 2 January 2005 at 11.00am.


Click here to read the official Maldon Mud Race website.

• Competitors take to the mud in the River Blackwater, Maldon.