CUMBRIA’S passion for running was there for all to see...

Even though the weather was cold, wet and miserable, the X Border Reverse from Gretna to Carlisle attracted a record number of competitors.

They included serious athletes, fun runners and groups from local clubs. Some 950 runners crossed the line at Kingmoor Park, though 1,100 had registered.

Among the more dedicated athletes to enjoy the event was 32-year-old Hailey Fletcher, who is also an ultra marathon runner; she recently finished a course that saw her run for an impressive 86 miles.

Like many of the runners, the sport for her has benefits well beyond keeping her fit and healthy. “I think it really puts you in touch with yourself,” said Hailey, who is head of religious education at Sedbergh School. “I don’t regard myself as super-fit. It’s all in the head, especially at long distance.

“It’s just willpower and mental fortitude; anyone can do it, and running is a great way to build that.”

Shane Stobbart, 34, had a more straightforward reason for running: “I just enjoy it,” he said. “I’ve been doing it for five years - anything from 5km to half marathons.

“Now that I’m doing it, I feel a lot better - and I’m two stones lighter!”

Among the first over the line were Ryan Milligan, 25, (with a time of 34 minutes and 56 seconds) and Jonathan Cox, 29, (32 minutes and 50 seconds).

Jonathan said: “It’s good to have a challenge, and to test your body to see what your limits are...and you see lots of people you may not have seen for a while.”

Ryan added: “A run like this sets you up for the day. It’s also good for the mind.”

Lawyer Kathryn Metcalfe, 45, is a member of Eden Runners.

After arriving at Kingstown, she said: “You feel fabulous at the end, even though it might have been pretty grim before and during. I decided to do the London Marathon.

“So I joined Eden Runners.

“The primary benefit is social; the fact that everyone is so supportive. It doesn’t matter what your ability is.”

Race director Mike James said he was delighted with the turnout for the event. “This is the biggest field of runners we’ve had,” he said. “We want to keep building it up; I think we can get up to 1,500 taking part.”

Mike’s next event - the Carlisle Half & 10k - will be on March 15.