Woman Dies During Borders Race In Dark

12 March 2017, 10:41 | Updated: 12 March 2017, 10:43

A woman has died after falling ill while taking part in a gruelling race held in darkness.

Emergency crews were called to the Mighty Deerstalker event in the Scottish Borders after the woman, 48, became unwell just before 6pm on Saturday.

She died en route to Borders General Hospital.

The 10-mile event, billed as the UK's biggest night race, was being held at Innerleithen in Tweeddale.

A spokesman for organisers Rat Race Adventure Sports, said: "We are extremely saddened to confirm that a participant in our Mighty Deerstalker event passed away yesterday.

"The participant became unwell at 5.56 pm, approximately one mile into the event, close to our event control station and at the location of one of our safety marshals.

"A member of our medical team was on the scene within three minutes as we implemented our response protocols.

"They were assisted by an off-duty paramedic until the arrival of the Scottish Ambulance Service.

"Tragically, we have since learned that the individual passed away en route to hospital.

"Rat Race Adventure Sports will give full assistance to the appropriate authorities.

"Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of the deceased.''

The event, now in its 11th year, sees hundreds of participants tackle off-road terrain while wearing head torches.

On its website, the organisers state: "The Mighty Deerstalker is as tough as it gets; hills, mud, swamp, darkness, rivers, obstacles and always devilishly vague on the true distance, this event never disappoints but it often hurts.''

A Police Scotland spokesman said: "Police in the Scottish Borders responded to a report of a woman having taken unwell during a sporting event near to Traquair House, Innerleithen at 6.15pm on Saturday March 11.

"The 48-year-old was treated by the Scottish Ambulance Service and was taken to Borders General Hospital. However, she passed away while en route.

"Inquiries are continuing, however there appear to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding this death and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.''