More than 650 competitors of all abilities took part in this year’s sell-out Carlisle Resolution runs at the city racecourse yesterday.

The 5km and 10km events attracted everyone from new runners to club athletes.

They provided a chance to burn off some Christmas calories, earn a new medal and get 2019 off to a healthy start.

The Resolution Runs were the first in a busy year of events for organisers Sport in Action, of which Claire and Brian Allen are directors.

Claire said it was a huge success: “It’s been going for nine years. I think it’s popular because it’s just after Christmas and is something to aim for if you set a new year resolution.

“Some of the local clubs have it as part of their championships, but it is open to everyone - children, women, men, beginners to seasoned runners.”

Among those taking part were 67 members of Eden Runners. They included husband and wife Gill and Shaun Silson, from Penrith.

Gill, who ran the 10km, said she has been coming to the Resolution Runs since they began. “This is the ninth time I’ve done this race and I always thoroughly enjoy it,” she said.

Three Eden Runners went straight from the Resolution 10km to a cross country event in Rickerby Park.

Among the first women back in the 5km race were identical twins Natalie McCarron, from Egremont, and Nadia Shaw, from Whitehaven.

The 33-year-olds are both part of the Cumberland Athletic Club and recently achieved some of the fastest female half marathon times in the country.

They said they started running together for a charity event, but it is has now become a big part of the lives. “We both really enjoy it. We’ve had a great day,” said Natalie.

Fellow club members Amie Meloy and Shane Fox took part in the 10km race. Amie said: “You always get a good crowd. The scenery is lovely and it’s a nice flat course.”