THE SUN was shining as runners from all over the county stepped up to the mark and competed in the Great Cumbrian Run 2022, this weekend. 

The event, which had Sport In Action partner up with the organisers Better for the first time, attracted running groups, families and fundraisers from all across Cumbria to participate in the half marathon that has been running since 1982.

The run, which was postponed last year, started at The Sheepmount Athletics Stadium in the centre of Carlisle before taking competitors out through the city centre towards Wetheral and returning through Scotby village before a grandstand finish back at The Sheepmount as runners aimed to beat their personal best timings in a half marathon setting. 

Some of the groups who slipped on their running shoes include, Wigton Road Runners, DH (Denton Holme) Runners, Cumberland Athletic Club and Border Reivers Runners to name a small few. 

Members of the DH Runners (Denton Holme) , who follow the motto 'go hard or go home', were keen to get the day underway. 

News and Star: Smiles all-round as runners take their first steps. Smiles all-round as runners take their first steps. (Image: Canva)

The group, which is led by Lindsay Graham, consists of self-proclaimed "slow-runners and fast-runners" who look to run for to improve their own mental well-being.

Ms Graham, who was involved in the announcing on the day, said: "It's brilliant to have the event running back again, it's been a bumpy couple of years but today's looking great and it's brilliant to have Sport in Action as the event partners." 

News and Star: DH Runners including Mary Messenger, Kate Imrie, Wendy Beesley, Gill Harding and Helen CupackDH Runners including Mary Messenger, Kate Imrie, Wendy Beesley, Gill Harding and Helen Cupack (Image: PMcTaggart)

One of the members, Mary Messenger, said: "Above all, we're here today to have a bit of fun." 

Similarly, the Wigton Road Runners were keen to get started with aims of raising awareness and funds for a charity "very close to the heart" of the group - Prostate Cancer UK. 

The running club will also be running their own 10K later this month for the cause, in which they hope to attract many of today's runners. To find out more information visit their Facebook page

As runners crossed the starting line on their journey throughout Carlisle and neighbouring villages, the Great Cumbrian Family Run took place - which involved a lap around Bitts Park, with many parents running hand in hand with their children.  

News and Star: The Underwood family ahead of Great Cumbrian Family RunThe Underwood family ahead of Great Cumbrian Family Run (Image: PMcTaggart)

The Great Cumbrian Run supports local charities CFM Radio’s Cash for Kids, Eden Valley Hospice & Jigsaw and The Lake District Calvert Trust.

A spokesperson for Eden Valley Hospice & Jigsaw posted on social media: "We’re delighted to once again be a charity partner at the event and are looking forward to seeing and cheering on our runners at what promises to be an amazing event." 

READ MORE: As the Great Cumbrian Run returns, meet the man who's run every one since 1982