From Paul Atkinson…

The Dunnerdale is a classic short race round the tiny but rugged Lake District fells between the Lickle and the Duddon valleys. The scenery is superb, the course is tough and varied and there’s a very nice pub at the finish. The race is ably organised by the Black Combe Runners. Five miles and 1500 feet of climb over four small steep tops.

With only the Ilkley Moor Fell Race as previous fell racing experience, I entered the Dunnerdale to see how they do things in the Lakes, where they love their fell racing as much as we do in Wharfedale. I was not disappointed! The sun shone on this loveliest corner of Lakeland (just by Coniston), the birds sang, the other competitors were all very friendly, and there were free pies at the end. Oh, and I got round in 72 minutes, exactly twice the winner’s time, finishing 29th in the MV60 category. But who’s counting? I shall be back…