THE organisers of a new running race along the Duddon Estuary said they are already thinking of next year. 

Run The Edge is a multi-terrain running festival. The first event was on Sunday, 21 May.

Competitors took part in one of two races - 11.4km, and 5km. They ran through the Hoadbarrow Nature Reserve. There was also a short family fun run and other activities.

It was organised by the Millom Striders running club on behalf of Cumberland Council. 

Run The Edge was part of the Connecting Cumbria’s Hidden Coast programme, which is led by Cumberland Borough Council and funded with £1.15m from Sellafield Ltd and more than £1m from the government's Coastal Communities Fund

Andrew Rigg, chairman of Millom Striders, said: “Run The Edge was an absolutely amazing success – so much so that we are already thinking about a second event next spring.

“We had 159 runners in the main 5k and 11k races and another 30 in the fun run, including lots of children. We also had lots of local volunteers helping us marshal the event. The participants were from right across Cumbria and the feedback has been incredible.”

Cllr Anne Quilter said: "This event was exceptionally well received, and the partnership with the Millom Striders was key to that. I’d like to say well done on a professionally run event, fully enjoyed by those who attended.

“We had hoped Run The Edge could grow and perhaps became an annual event, so to hear that the Striders are keen to do another is great news. We’d certainly like to work with them on ways to secure funding for a similar event in the future, showcasing our wonderful coast.

“The outdoor experience economy is a key part of our visitor industry and it’s something we want to support. Events like this not only showcase our amazing scenery and hospitality, they support business and promote healthy activity too.”