Imagine walking or running round your town at night visiting local checkpoints using the latest satellite technology and having lots of fun at the same time!

Enter Spunch - a fast-growing fun activity which has been launched by an avid orienteering fan who wanted to start something inclusive to everyone.

Andy Thornton who lives in Nantwich, launched Spunch two years ago using the Map Run app and since then hundreds of individuals and families have taken part in his events.

A map and some checkpoints. (Andy Thornton)

And on Wednesday (December 11th) Spunch comes to Sandbach, starting and finishing in the courtyard of the town's historic Swan & Chequers pub. Details for the Sandbach event and how to sign up are here

Places are still available for Wednesday's event which you can start any time between 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm.

It's accessible to all from families, couples and those pushing a pushchair who want to walking and also those in a wheelchair.

"I've always loved orienteering but wanted to develop something which used a map and was a fun and inclusive activity to do," said Andy.

Two participants with a map (Photo: Andy Thornton)

"We've held events all over Cheshire, including Congleton, Nantwich and Alsager and this week we're coming to Sandbach which we're excited about.

"All we ask is that you wear a hi vis vest or a bright top so you can be seen. It's accessible to all ages and no specialist equipment is required."

'Spunchers' are issued with a physical map showing the checkpoints and then as they pass them their phone beeps to show they have passed that point.

It can be done solo, in a pair, or as a team of 3 or more.  Each participant needs to put in an individual entry except juniors under 18 who can go for free with a paying adult.

A waterproof map of the course is provided to all participants and the cost from today and on the day is £8. The early offers have now sadly closed. 

"It's a wholesome activity accessible to all ages," added Andy. "The emphasis is on having fun. Even people who've lived in towns for a while will discover new places they didn't know existed doing this.

"It's basically about getting together and sharing a love of the outdoors."

Spunch is a fun new activity for those who love the outdoors. (Photo: Andy Thornton)

If you can't make it, Andy is running an event in Marple on January 9th, one in Leek on January 15th and another in Macclesfield on January 23rd.

Happy Spunching!

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