Dave Robinson of the Coniston County Fair:

It is a classic up and down fell race from the show field, in a glorious setting at Coniston Hall, on the shores of Coniston Lake, not far from Donald Campbell’s fateful crash site.

On a glorious sunny day the bumper crowd got the adrenalin of the 65 runners going, with the start taking place in the main arena and the runners exiting via a race funnel through the crowds of onlookers, then away onto the fell crossing the Walna Scar track and then on to the top of Coniston Old Man and back.
Runners were clearly visible to the crowds on the show field as they climbed the shoulder of the Old Man.

Mark Addison (Helm Hill ) won easily in a fast time of 54.11 mins(less than 2mins outside the record) with Alan Smith( Deeside) second also male vet50 in 60.30, with Darren Holloway( Pennine) third and also male vet 40.

First lady home in 11th place overall was Anna Rybe (MLRRC – USA) in a very creditable time of 66.50 mins, with the second lady Hazel Robinson(Ambleside) and third lady Fiona Hughes.

Male vet60 winner was Dave Fell with Lady vet60 winner Wendy Dodds, Lady vet 40 winner Denise Tunstall and lady vet50 winner Lynda Howard.

Prizes were presented by our local MP Tim Farron who normally competes in the race but was unable to do so this year but hopes to be back next year .

Coniston Country Fair provides an excellent setting for the fell race and a very enjoyable family day out with plenty to do and see, including Herd wick sheep show, Cumberland and Westmoreland wrestling, craft marquee, children’s sports, ferret racing, terrier racing, demonstration of local crafts, stick show, hound and terrier show, pet show, over 70 trade stands, side shows and refreshments.

We are indebted to our prize sponsor Norman Garside( for the magnificent stone trophies) and also the marshals/ helpers on the day including in particular Coniston Mountain Rescue who marshalled the top of the Old Man and our local Community Support Police officers and St Johns Ambulance service and the friends who manned the entry desk/marshalled and helped with the day. etc.

See web page http://www.conistoncountryfair.co.uk for more details