ALMOST 200 runners took part in the inaugural Herdwick 10km road race on Saturday (July 5).

The run was launched by the Herdwick Sheep Breeders’ Association (HSBA) and Taste Cumbria andfunded by the Prince’s Countryside Fund.

The aim of the run is to raise awareness and funds to help hill farmers.

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The overall winner was Matt King, from Winchester, who crossed the finish line in 34 minutes and 44seconds.

The first woman back was Heidi Dent, who finished in 39 minutes and 37 seconds.

The route started at the Sticklebarn, Great Langdale, and went through the Langdale Estate to Eltermere before looping back on itself.

The event raised £2,500 which will go to the Herdwick Marquee Fund and enable the Herdwick Sheep Breeders' Association to have increased presence at the major Cumbrian shows.

Mary Houston, Taste Cumbria manager, said: “These agricultural shows provide important business benefits to the farming community and play a strong role in increasing tourism in the region.

“Having a presence and communicating the importance of this iconic breed of sheep and its role in shaping the Lake District landscape, which is enjoyed by so many, is vital to sustaining hill farming inCumbria.”