ORGANISERS of a major running event have donated £10,000 towards much-needed path repairs on the 100-mile Lake District route.

The Lakeland 100 takes place tomorrow (Friday) and is an annual challenge which covers100 miles around the Lake District National Park in 40 hours.

The donation will be spent on essential repairs to Welter Beck bridge near Ullswater and on footpath repair work in Langdale.

Lake District National Park Project Ranger Phil Clague said: “It is fantastic when the organisers of large events are willing to give towards maintaining the precious landscape which they use.

"High numbers of people can have a real impact on the tracks and trails of the National Park. The Lakeland 100 donation will help to address this – and will bring welcome improvements for everyone using these paths.”

Marc Laithwaite of Lakeland 100 said: “The Montane Lakeland 50 and 100 is now in its ninth year and since it started in 2008, we have been dedicated to giving back to the local community and the Lake District National Park.

“We have funded several repair projects and this year, we’re excited to be part of a three year project to improve the footpath in Great Langdale valley. The fact that this section of footpath is on the event course, means that the competitors can see first hand how their contributions are being used to make a difference for all outdoor enthusiasts. We are keen to ensure that our event continues year after year and giving back is a critical part of the process.

"If we want this stunning landscape to be accessible for years to come, then it’s everyone’s responsibility to help.”

The Lakeland 100 starts at John Ruskin School in Coniston.

The route heads south before taking in Eskdale, Wasdale and Buttermere before arriving in Keswick. Then it is on to Matterdale, Haweswater before returning via Kentmere, Ambleside and Elterwater and finishing at Coniston.