On May 1, Essex once again hosts one of the most prestigious athletic events of its kind in the world.

The 300 brave and dedicated souls who are to compete are required not only to bring a strong pair of shoes, but also duct tape, and a black sack for their dirty clothes. Such tremendous interest surrounds the event that upwards of 20,000 visitors are expected in the area.

Indeed, press from across Europe, and television crews from America and Australia have covered the event in previous years.

Yet it’s perhaps not the competitors who are the real stars of the show.

Rather, the chief attraction is one of Essex’s most abundant commodities: mud!

The venue is not the Olympic Stadium, nor a running track, nor a football ground.

No, it’s the River Blackwater – or rather the banks and river bed of the Blackwater – at Maldon.

Yes, May Day signals the return of the world-famous Maldon Mud Race – one of the more colourful traditions of our county, dating back to 1973.

Quite understandably, the spectacle of hundreds of people attempting to race each other across large areas of mud has quickly become a must-see.

Of course, the Mud Race not only generates fun, athletic prowess and interest for the area, but also much needed money and attention for a variety of charities.

The race is a great reminder that getting together to raise money for others, to raise awareness of important issues, or to work to try to make a difference in our communities is not only rewarding but can be tremendously fun.

So, those of us who are not expecting to be caked in mud this May Day should take inspiration from those brave competitors to use our own gifts, efforts and time to have fun helping others.

And for those who are expecting to be caked in mud: good luck and don’t forget the duct tape!