Fell running legends evening a fundraising success
The organisers behind a unique evening event bringing together three Lake District fell running legends say it’s been an outstanding success.
An audience of over 300 supporters from around the country gathered last Friday (1 April) to hear Joss Naylor, Kenny Stuart and Billy Bland reflect together, and for the first time, on their achievements, racing stories and love of the Lake District fells.
The trio, born three decades apart and from three valleys in the North and West Lakes, set records in the 1960’s, 1970’s and 1980’s of which many remain unbeaten to this day.
Joss, Kenny and Billy answered questions from the audience ranging from memories of their first race, the best technique for running down a mountain, why some of their records still stand and advice for youngsters.
The event was organised by youth charity Brathay Trust ahead of their 10th Brathay Windermere Marathon and ‘10in10’ challenge - of which Joss Naylor is a patron. Held at Brathay Hall near Ambleside it included an auction of fell racing memorabilia. Over £10,000 was raised which means the charity can work with many more disadvantaged young people around the country.
Joss Naylor, who turned 80 in February, also announced his plans to mark his birthday – in the past he’s celebrated his 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries with impressive fell running challenges. This time Joss, awarded an MBE for his services to sport and charity, will make a 30 mile fundraising journey based on places connected to his dad and passing former homes at Middle Row and Bowderdale.
As Joss explained:
“On 25th June I will follow a route across the fells from Caldbeck to Wasdale. I'm running in memory of my father, Joe Naylor, who was born in Caldbeck and moved to Wasdale in 1927. This run also marks my 80th birthday and is raising funds to help some of the most disadvantaged children and young people in the UK who deserve a better life.”
Brathay’s head of fundraising, Scott Umpleby added:
“It was a privilege to hear these legends talk and the high regard in which they are still held means many young people in dire situations will be supported to get their lives back on track. We are also incredibly grateful to Joss for fundraising for us once again with his 80th running challenge. Since he made the announcement a few days ago donations of over £4,000 have been made.”
Anyone wanting to find out more can visit Joss’s Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/JossNaylor80