Ultimate Lakeland Trail organisers create extra places

Demand for a new "ultra marathon" across Cumbria's fells has exceeded expectations, organisers have claimed.

The 100 kilometre (62.6 mile) Ultimate Lakeland Trail takes in a complete circuit of the central Lake District.

It has to be completed in 24 hours, and unlike many fell runs is along marked footpaths and bridleways.

The 300 places for the September event were quickly filled by entries from as far afield as Japan and Australia, so an additional 100 have been created.

The route, starting and ending at Brockhole Visitor Centre on the shores of Windermere, includes six mountain passes, with 14,000 ft (4,267m) of ascent and descent, and passes five lakes.

It will be marshalled and there will be 10 feed centres.

Organisers hope the event will become a regular tourist attraction bringing both athletes and spectators to the region.