It all started like most things - over a few pints in the Local. "…why not organise a race up the Wrekin carrying a barrel of beer and raise some money for a good cause in the process ?"

And so the Wrekin Barrel Race was born.

2004 will see the sixth race organised by the Lions Club of Shrewsbury. If you don't know what a Lions Club is click here

The event has raised thousands of pounds for several good causes and has established a series of records which are set to challenge those who want to become Champions of the Hill.

There are four classes of entry:

• The Classic - team of four - full 9 gal. barrel
• The Individual - accompanied individual full 9 gal. barrel
• Ladies Challenge - team of four ladies - empty 9 gal. barrel
• Fun Challenge - team of four - fancy dress - empty barrel

There are prizes and Trophies for the various classes as well as Certificates of Participation for all with a record of their time from bottom to top.

The course is a climb of 1,000ft (300m) over distance of 1.5 miles (2.4km) the record time is 26 minutes 3 seconds (established in 2003) and is currently held by a team from the Cock Hotel in nearby Wellington.

See latest results here