ATHLETES are being invited to take part in a new running challenge starting at a Lake District hostel.

The route takes in 23 peaks in the Elterwater region, beginning and finishing at the village's hostel.

The '23 Before Tea' challenge was inspired by Paul Tierney's record-breaking run of all 214 Wainwright peaks back in 2019 - a time that was bettered this week by Sabrina Verjee, who finished the gruelling ultramarathon in less than six days.

“What started out as one of those ideas in the pub after a few pints morphed into a new challenge for runners,” said Adrian Thomas, of Elterwater Hostel.

The first person to beat the time of 14 hours and 50 minutes - set during a trial last autumn - for 23 Before Tea will receive a free two-night stay for two at the hostel.

The Westmorland Gazette: INTENSE: A map of the routeINTENSE: A map of the route

Runners should clock their times on their return to the hostel, where they can also claim a cup of tea and a flapjack.

The first person to beat the time of 14 hours and 50 minutes - set during a trial last autumn - for 23 Before Tea will receive a free two-night stay for two at the hostel.

Runners should clock their times on their return to the hostel, where they can also claim a cup of tea and a flapjack.