MORE than 2,400 people took part in one of the most challenging charity events in Cumbria as they raised funds for good causes.

The 40-mile Keswick to Barrow Walk grows in popularity each year with teams of between six and 12 walkers testing themselves against the beautiful but arduous backdrop of the Lake District.

One of those taking part was Furness MP John Woodcock. He was part of one of the biggest groups taking part, Team Alice, which supports the Alice’s Escapes charity. It was set up by Ulverston’s Alice Pyne, who has Hodgkin’s lymphoma, to provide short breaks for families with seriously ill children.

And he beat chronic fatigue to make sure he raised almost £2,400 for the cause.

Mr Woodcock said: “It was every bit as tough as people said it would be. My legs stopped working properly when I crossed the finishing line at Hawcoat Park and I fell asleep shortly after arriving home a bit later.

“But it was a fabulous day, a brilliant route and a privilege to be part of Team Alice. I would like to thank everyone who sponsored me and say a big well done to everyone who took part.”

The route takes in Thirlmere, at the foot of Helvellyn, winds up and over Dunmail Raise and down through Grasmere and Elterwater.

From there the walk passes Yew Tree Tarn before reaching the head of Coniston Water, where walkers can take in the views of Coniston Old Man as the route passes Brantwood, the former home of the Lakeland poet John Ruskin, then through Nibthwaite before arriving in Lowick.

It was also the third year of the 23-mile Coniston to Barrow route, which attracted record numbers – 324 – many of whom were youngsters.

The junior boys’ record was broken by Sam Jefferson, 16, of Ulverston Victoria High School sixth form team, in 5.39.10 – taking 22 minutes off the old record.

His cousin and fellow UVHS student Kirsten Bell, 14, was the first girl to finish in 7.36.19 for the Go Physio team.

K2B chairman, Brian Devenny, said: “It’s a record breaking year, it’s been absolutely awesome. They are heroes. They say: ‘Never again,’ we say: ‘See you next year,’ and they come back.”