THE first urban assault course to be held in the South West of England is to be held in Falmouth in February when 1,500 adults and up to 1,000 children are expected to tackle the six kilometre course.

Urban Survivor is being planned by St Buryan-based company Tuff Enuff who aim to attract entrants from across the country for what it wants to be its "flagship event." The course will take competitors through the town's streets, parks and coastline, seeing them negotiate massive obstacles and diverse terrain, making it one of Tuff Enuff's toughest events to date.

A delegation from the company explained their plans to Falmouth councillors last week. Its founder, Tony Borrett, said: "This is something we think could really put Falmouth on the map. We want to work with the community - it is the kind of event that can really bring he community together and showcase what Falmouth has to offer.

"The potential for what we could do in Falmouth with an event like this and the kind of publicity we could raise, could be huge. Obstacle course racing is something new in this country, we had the first UK championships this year.

"It will be the first urban obstacle course race in the south west of England. We want to make it part of the Urban Survivor series and make it our flasgship event."

Councillors were told the hope is to involve a number of the town's landmark locations, including Pendennis Castle, Jacob's Ladder, Kimberley Park and Gyllyngvase Beach as well as the whole of the town centre making up part of the course. If a success, it is hoped the course will become an annual event, bringing in much welcomed cash to the local economy.

The idea is the event will have two options, "complete or compete." For those choosing either option they will encounter over 40 obstacles that will force them to face their fears, mentally and physically, but as a "completer" entrants can avoid any obstacle they are not comfortable with.

However, those who choose to compete, will use the same route as complete runners, but, there will be various compulsory challenges given to individuals and teams, and they will be "brutal," promise the Tuff Enuff.

As well as the adult race, for which there are 1,500 spaces, the organisers are also planning a junior course for between 750 and 1,000 children aged six to 18 years.

Members of Falmouth Town Council unanimously agreed to support the event last week. Councillor Steve Eva said: "It sounds quite interesting. It will be another feather in Falmouth's cap if we can get this. Anything that showcases Falmouth and brings people in Falmouth is a good thing we I would back it 100 per cent."

For more information on the challenge, and to enter, go to tuff-enuff.co.uk.