THE sizzling Silsden summer sunset that had been ordered as a backdrop to this year’s Kings Challenge fell race was instead replaced by a warm, steamy, humid evening that got wetter and mistier the higher you climbed!

Starting at the Kings Arms pub in the heart of the town, the race romps its way over parts of Rombald’s Moor and up the Nab End to Windgate Nick.

From there, it follows the wall along Addingham High Moor until it reaches the trig marking the summit, which is the turn point.

Runners must then negotiate their way back the way they came, and all terrains are covered, including a little tarmac, manicured parkland, grazed pasture, thigh-deep marsh and rocky outcrops.

Consequently, it challenges even the most experienced of runners over its six-mile, there-and-back route.

Local knowledge or navigational skills are vital, particularly on the skyline, as wrong turns could result in arrival in Ilkley rather than back in Silsden!

This was made all the more pertinent as the rain fell and the mist shrouded runners in a mysterious air, making them all the more curious to the casually grazing cattle.

Despite the weather and the obstacles, it was an evening of records.

The first record was that of entries. Always a low-key race, this year it attracted 44 eager competitors from across the north of England.

The second record to tumble was the winner’s time. Local man James Hall won the race in 39min 59sec.

Second man home was Wallsend Harriers’ Harry Coates (41.01) and third was Valley Striders’ Ali Burns (44.14).

The first lady was Ilkley Harriers’ Jan Smith (56.06), followed by Wharfedale’s Monica Padilla (56.21) and Harrogate Harriers’ Jacki Artist (58.40).