A record-breaking field took on a 10k race in Carlisle that's fast-becoming one of the city's most popular sporting challenges.

Organised by Sport in Action, the event attracts runners from all over north Cumbria and was held once again this Bank Holiday weekend.

The event started being stage about four years ago. This time around there were 280 people who entered.

"It's the most we've ever had," said Claire Allen, who runs Sport in Action - a city-based multi sports events company - with husband Brian.

"I think running is just become really popular full stop.

"It's increasing all the time and a lot of local clubs have this event on their 10k series they've got going."

Entrants from clubs such as Penrith-based Eden Runners, DH Runners in the city and Carlisle Tri Club packed the event.

They all took on a course which started and finished near the Sheepmount, in Bitts Park.

From there they took on a route which led them through Rickerby Park and Linstock before coming back into the city along Brampton Road.

As well as the serious runners battling it out for the top spots there were a number of people taking part in their first ever 10k race.

Alison Pescod, 39, from Denton Holme, Carlisle, was representing DH Runners.

She said: "I just thought why not?

"I've been running three times a week and did an unofficial 10k earlier in the week and that seemed to go well.

"I'm both excited and nervous."

Joining her for the first time were teammates Bev Pasa, 49, from Morton, Carlisle and Catherine Wood, 28, from Broad Street, Carlisle.

Bev said: "I've had a big change personally and this is the new me. It's my first time too."

Catherine told the News & Star : "I signed up for Liverpool half marathon next year in a moment of madness and this is the next step in my training."

Ryan Brennand, 26, from Penrith, was appearing in the colours of Eden Runners.

It was also his first time doing a 10k.

He said: "I joined Eden Runners about six months ago and have been doing park runs, moving up towards this."

More experienced runner Peter Campbell, 55, of Harraby, Carlisle, has been there and done it before.

"I've done this a couple of times now," he said.

"I do it because it's in Carlisle and I don't have to go far to stagger home.

"I'm just aiming to get round because I've been running with an injury for the last couple of years."

Mr Allen said: "This is our fourth year and it's become popular with a lot of people because we record the times so people can go for a genuine personal best."