Good luck to all the heroes set to tie up their laces and take part in the Keswick-to-Barrow and Coniston-to-Barrow in 2023. 

The annual charity challenge returned to its traditional May date last year following two years of disruption due to Covid. The pandemic resulted in the 2020 event being cancelled and the 2021 event being staged on a smaller scale in September.

The Westmorland Gazette: Charlie-Jane Millar, with children and niece Myles, Penelope, and LilyCharlie-Jane Millar, with children and niece Myles, Penelope, and Lily (Image: Christopher Warner)

Last year's event saw a total of 1,921 participants starting the two courses, with 743 of 776 entrants completing the K2B, and 1,128 of 1,145 finishing the C2B.

This year's event promises to be an even bigger success, with around 1,000 people signed up for the K2B and 1,400 for the C2B.  

Proceeds generated from last year's event saw £321,000 raised for more than 100 charities and goods causes, and well over £5million has been donated in the 56-year history of the event. 

Neil Doherty, Social Impact Manager at BAE Systems Submarines, said: "Good luck to everyone taking part. This great community event gives everyone taking part the opportunity to complete an immense physical challenge, and it also helps to raises vital funds for a number of good causes." 

The Westmorland Gazette: Dan Sayle and Ben SmithDan Sayle and Ben Smith (Image: Christopher Warner)

It all began back in 1967 when shipyard workers challenged the Royal Navy to take part in a 40-mile trek walk from the heart of the Lake District to Barrow.

The winners received the Resolution Cup, and that tradition is still going strong. The Royal Navy team lifted the trophy for the second year running last year, following a 16-year gap, with Josh Crowther leading them home. 

Josh defended his individual crown, completing the gruelling course in four hours, 28 minutes, and smashing 17 minutes off the time he posted to win the 2021 race.

The Westmorland Gazette: Gill Jackson and Peter BrownGill Jackson and Peter Brown (Image: Christopher Warner)

The first female competitor home in 2022 was Karen Oldham in 6 hours and 11 minutes. Tyga Steel defended her junior girls crown to win in 6 hours and 24 minutes and Max Hazelhurst was first boy to cross the finishing line in 6 hours and one minute.

As usual, supporters will gather in great numbers along the scenic route, and at the finish at Hawcoat Park, Barrow, to cheer on the intrepid runners and walkers.