The main race starts with a church service at Llanwynno, and then a wreath is laid on the grave of Guto Nyth Brân in Llanwynno graveyard. After lighting a torch, it is carried to the nearby town of Mountain Ash, where the race takes place.

Recently named, alongside the London, Boston, New York City and Beijing Marathons, as one of the world's Ultimate Running Races, Nos Galan attracts people in their thousands.

From professional runners who tour the world to families looking for New Year's Eve fun, Nos Galan provides something for everyone.

It is far more than a race, offering an evening of fun that allows you to welcome the New Year in style, while also celebrating the wonderful and fascinating past of this part of the world.

The evening begins with a traditional church service in Llanwonno, with a wreath-laying ceremony at the grave of Guto Nyth Bran in the churchyard. The famed Nos Galan torch is then lit and carried into the town centre, where the races for all ages and all abilities begin.

The traditional buzz of New Year's Eve, with celebrations, fireworks and the anticipation of a new year, creates a wonderful atmosphere, which is further boosted by the attractions, games and activities organised. If you can't wait until New Year's Eve to find out what Mountain Ash has to offer, don't forget the town is hosting a Christmas extravaganza from 3pm on Thursday, December 6 with Santa's Grotto, local choirs, a festive funfair, street entertainers and late-night shopping so you can enjoy the array of gifts and goodies on offer.

For more information on how to register your entry and be part of Nos Galan 2011, visit www.nosgalan.co.uk or ring 01443 424123.

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NOS GALAN
The Running Man...
Guto Nyth Brân's legend

Born Griffith Morgan in 1700, he adopted the name of the farm where he lived, Nyth Bran Farm, on the outskirts of Llanwonno.

But the extraordinary, even bizarre, circumstances surrounding his premature death at the age of 37 have probably overshadowed many of his achievements.

Guto's abilities were noticeable from an early age as he enjoyed the vast expanse of the surrounding countryside as his training ground. He was a natural athlete and one of the most gifted runners in Welsh history.

Legend has it Guto Nyth Bran could outrun a hare, catch a bird in flight, keep up with hounds and win races against horses. According to one tale, his mother sent him out to get some tea and he ran seven miles down to Pontypridd and back before the kettle had boiled. Guto's father did not need a sheepdog as the youngster would chase the sheep into the pens for him.

His racing affairs were managed by his sweetheart Sian o'r Siop (Sian of the Shop) but his life was tragically cut short when in 1737 he accepted the challenge of a 12-mile race from Newport to Caerphilly.

Sian wagered £1,000 of her life savings on her hero winning the race and a triumphant Guto went on to beat his opponent, a younger man known as Prince, an English soldier who was stationed at the barracks in Monmouth.

Guto crossed the line in an amazing time of 53 minutes - but when his girlfriend stepped forward to congratulate him, her enthusiasm was more than he could take. She slapped him heartily on the back and he collapsed and died on the spot.

Guto was laid to rest at St Gwynno's Church, Llanwonno, where his grave still attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Nos Galan Races are held in his honour each New Year's Eve, with the famous Nos Galan Mystery Runner laying a wreath on the grave of Guto.