The world-famous Maldon Mud Race returns to Promenade Park on Sunday (June 2).

This year is the 50th anniversary of the iconic event, which will see hundreds of competitors dash across the muddy bed of the River Blackwater.

With 20,000 visitors last year, it's expected to be just as busy this time around.

We've compiled a short guide so you know what to do and where to go ahead of time:

What is the Maldon Mud Race?

The Maldon Mud Race is an annual event in which competitors race to be the first to complete a 400-meter dash across the muddy bed of the River Blackwater.

The event attracts visitors and press from all over Europe and features 300 fund-raising entrants, all of whom will be raising money for various charities.

Last year the event raised over £35,000 for charity.

Charities that are being supported this year include Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, Farleigh Hospice, Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, and more.

See the gallery from previous years.

How much does entry cost?

Entry to the event is free!

What time should I get there?

The race is planned to start at 3pm, but music and entertainment begins as early as 10am.

Music will continue after the race with Paul Lovett from 3-5pm.

Where should I stand?

The main event takes over the bed of the river Blackwater, alongside Promenade Park's refreshment kiosks and ornamental lake. 

There will also be two 11-metre TV screens to help spectators catch all the action.

There are other activities taking place across the park, so no seat is a bad one!

Vicky Reilly (left) and James Haskell-Jones (right) were the first two to finish the race in 2023. Meanwhile, comedian Jo Brand (inset, pictured with ITV News' Becky Jago) cheered her daughter Maisie on from the side-lines. (Photos: Maldon Mud Race)

What's on?

Aside from the main event, there are a range of fun activities such as the Duck Race, the Fancy Dress Competition for competitors, and a range of stalls with snacks and promotional gifts.

There will be teepee food tents offering a wide range of local meat and seafood with Black Pig Catering/Farm Café, as well as a bar with local beer and wine.

There will be an all-day big stage with BBC Essex, so you can enjoy the sunny weather with great tunes.

Any celebs this year?

Some celebrities have been known to come to Maldon to spectate our iconic race. 

Last year Jo Brand made an appearance, as well as BBC Essex's Sonia Watson, Ben Fryer, and Matt Mackay. 

This year, former Paralympian Danny Crates will be starting the runners. 

Chairman Brian Farrington said, 'The Race celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and we are so pleased to have Danny with us to start the race, and of course, having undertaken the Race as well as being a motivational speaker, he can really get the runners off to the perfect start.'

Where can I park?

The closest car park to the event would be Promenade Park Main Car park, entrance in Park Drive CM9 5JQ.

Up to: 1hr £1.60, 2hrs £3.20, 5hrs £8, all day £11.

If you don't mind the short walk, Maldon High Street car parks include:

• WHITE HORSE LANE Located at the top end of the High Street CM9 5QP
• BUTT LANE Located in the middle of the High Street CM9 5HD
• FRIARY FIELDS Located in the middle of the High Street CM9 5BY
• HIGH STREET EAST Located at the lower end of the High Street CM9 5BS

All High Street car parks offer £1.90 all-day parking on Sundays, 8 am to 10 pm.

Read about last year's event here.