Supporting a great Cumbrian tradition

Last year saw a great 15 per cent increase in the number of those taking part. More than 900 people completed the K2B and more than 1,300 the C2B.

Neil Doherty, Project Manager for Social Impact at BAE Systems Submarines, said: "We're proud that the Keswick to Barrow has its roots firmly in the shipyard and it is great to see the event attracting greater numbers year on year. It is testament to the community spirit of Barrow and Furness that so many people take part, raising money for good causes."

Ahead of this year' event, hundreds of colleagues from BAE Systems Submarines have spent months pounding pavements, paths and treadmills in readiness for the walk.

The 40-mile Keswick-to-Barrow May challenge is a chance for people to challenge themselves, test their fitness and raise money for causes close to their heart. Better still, it brings the whole community together.

Also consisting of the 20-mile the Coniston to Barrow walk, the event helps to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for local charities each year.

Entrants range from elite athletes capable of finishing this beautiful but brutal 40-mile challenge in five or six hours, to walkers of all ages and fitness levels who put their best foot forward to support good causes and enjoy a fantastic community event.

As part of the tradition, supporters gather in great numbers along the scenic route, and at the finish at Hawcoat Park, Barrow, to cheer on the intrepid runners and walkers.

The trophy was first competed for in 1967, when Barrow Shipyard workers first challenged the Royal Navy to take part in a walk from Keswick to Barrow.

The tradition has been kept alive, and the event has grown from humble beginnings into something much bigger in the six decades since.