The†Dovedale Dash†is a cross country race of 4æ miles, run by about 1200 people of†all abilities. The venue is†the picturesque area around the village of†Thorpeand†Dovedale†in the south of the†Derbyshire†Peak District.†The†course†is mainly along field paths and open ground in the valleys of the rivers Dove and Manifold. There are short stretches along tarmac and there is some stony ground. One of the excitements is the crossing of the river Dove at the well known†Stepping-Stones.†