HARDY runners and walkers (pictured) took to Allendale this weekend for the 27th Allendale Challenge.

Organised by the North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Service, the annual challenge is a gruelling 25-mile route taking in the sights of Ninebanks, Killhope, Sparty Lea and Blackhill before returning to Allendale.

On Saturday, 600 walkers and 100 runners aged between 14 and 79 bravely took on what has been recognised as one of the most challenging and strenuous routes in the UK.

Each participant paid an entrance fee and got a t-shirt, badge and pie and peas on finishing the race.

The North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Service were pleased to have been blessed with good weather and said that anybody who completed the challenge should be very proud.

The first runner home was Jim Mann in 3 hours and 28 minutes.

Meanwhile the first female runner was Steph Scott in 5 hours and 10 minutes.

The first male walker home was Stephen Wilkins in 5 hours and 33 minutes, with the first female walker Fiona McKenzie in 6 hour and 3 minutes.

The first under 20 was Troy Wilkinson in 7 hours and 29 minutes.