Kielder Marathon weekend 2024(Image: Northumbrian Water)

13 pictures as hardy runners take on the picturesque Kielder Marathon

Runners and spectators gathered at Kielder Reservoir for the 14th Kielder Marathon weekend

06 Oct 2024, 19:31 by David Huntley · ChronicleLive

Thousands of runners have descended on Northumberland this weekend, with many tacking the Kielder Marathon on Sunday.

Known as Britain’s most beautiful marathon, the run takes place alongside Northumbrian Water’s Kielder Reservoir, and sees participants running a gruelling 26 miles on and off-road course through the stunning Kielder Forest. This year, Ricky Lightfoot, of Ellenborough AC, and Jane Hodgson, of Morpeth Harriers, took home the titles of male and female marathon winners, with times of 02:34:24 and 03:16:05.

Callum Hanson, of Pudsey & Bramley AC was the first male to cross the line of the half-marathon, finishing in an impressive 01:14:29 – while Luisa Hartley was the female winner with a time of 01:30:39. One of the female half-marathon runners was also treated to a huge surprise as her partner dropped to one knee and proposed on the finish line.

David Hall, Head of Commercial Strategy and Transformation at Northumbrian Water said: “Kielder Marathon weekend is always a true spectacle, but this year has been the biggest and most magnificent yet. Hearing stories from participants, and knowing how far people travel for this special event is amazing, and we absolutely love welcoming so many fantastic individuals to our site. Of course, it wouldn’t be possible without all of our brilliant volunteers and event teams who work incredibly hard to make the weekend what it is, so thank you to all of those involved.”