This is an endurance walk, and you must have prepared for it. We ask that you have a good basic fitness and have undertaken some training in the run up to the event. A good rule of thumb for the full marathon is that you should have completed at least one 20km training walk in the shoes you plan to wear on the day and that you practice changing layers of clothes on the move, and train with a weighted rucksack.

Yes, we have two buses running the route so you can choose where to leave your car. Whether you are starting in Merseyside or Greater Manchester you can catch a bus back to your car at the end of the day. If you are a substitute, or are substituted at half time (ie you are walking the half marathon distance) you can get on either of the buses to or from Stockton Heath. This shuttle service is available all day, but must be booked in advance.

Fashion or gym trainers are not suitable, but then heavy walking boots are not necessarily required as all the terrain is level and on footpaths. A good running trainer or trail shoe or lightweight walking boots are ideal. Tips will be circulated based on the weather in the days before.

You must have sufficient walking experience or qualifications to be a mentor. Please email the organisers if you want to be part of the team of volunteers on the day. You will also be given a discount code for you to share with friends.

There are check points at the rest stops along the route, where the vehicles will be waiting. If any walker is struggling to meet time checks, you may be asked to either leapfrog forwards to the next point, or remain in the vehicle. These check points aim to ensure a maximum 10 hour completion time. Your welfare is being monitored both on the move and at rest stops.

These are available upon request. Please email info@giantwalk.org

We have a no quibble cancellation policy up to 7 days before the event, and your entry fee will be returned in full minus any platform or card fees deducted. Once inside the 7 day period, no refunds are available but you can transfer into a future event.

No, but you dog will enjoy training with you in preparing for the event on shorter distances. Dogs can walk with walkers from the cheering points for a bit, but must remain with a handler, and on a lead. Pick it up!

WC's along the route will be marked out in the event guide, and group mentors will know where they are. There are also plenty of "sheltered" areas you may take a moment. The buses will have a WC on board.

A GPX (satnav) file will be available in advance. Group mentors and leaders will have this available and are tracked, and although the route is pretty straightforward, key signposts will be on site at junctions. All mentors will have GPS and radio support from Event Control and there will be chalk markings. There is also a tracking beacon on the bus (that the driver does not know about! Shhh!)

Young walkers are encouraged to complete the half marathon distance, but must be of secondary school age. An adult must remain responsible for children as our mentors will not be in loco parentis.