IT was a day of 'happy smiling faces' once again as the annual Keswick Half Marathon saw hundreds of runners gather together to complete the run.

The Keswick Half Marathon 2024 took place on Sunday, September 22 with 599 runners of all ages entering to take on the popular annual half marathon.

The half marathon is hosted by Keswick Rugby Club, with all proceeds going to the running of grassroots rugby in Keswick.

Organisers of the event have thanked the many volunteers who 'make the event happen' through giving up their time to support on the day.

Rebecca Robinson won the Womens' race in a time of 1.23.45Rebecca Robinson won the Womens' race in a time of 1.23.45 (Image: Ben Challis)

Sara Young, co-race director, said: "Yet again, we've been impressed with the passion and dedication of all those running and the enthusiasm of the supporters who turned out in the September sunshine in great numbers.

"None of this would have been possible if it wasn't for the dozens of volunteer marshals who gave up their time to help make the event happen, both at Keswick Rugby Club and out on the course.

"As one runner emailed, post event, which we feel sums it up perfectly: 'Thanks for organising a great event. It shows off Keswick and its people brilliantly'."

Ellenborough AC's Ricky Lightfoot wins the Keswick HalfEllenborough AC's Ricky Lightfoot wins the Keswick Half (Image: Ben Challis)

The race was won by Ellenborough AC's Ricky Lightfoot who completed the course in a time of 1 hour and 12 minutes, with the women's first place going to Kendal's Rebecca Robinson, who completed with a time of 1 hour and 23 minutes.

Tom Atkinson was the first home town finisher in thirteenth place.Tom Atkinson was the first home town finisher in thirteenth place. (Image: Ben Challis)

Tim Green, president of Keswick Rugby Club said: "Once again Angela and Sara did an amazing job of organising the Keswick Half Marathon.

"Outside of rugby, the race is my favourite day of the year with so many happy smiling faces enjoying everything that the area and our rugby club community have to offer.

"This year was made extra special by having the new clubhouse build as a backdrop to the finishing line. On the day I received so many positive comments about the race organisation, the friendliness and encouragement of our marshals and the beautiful area we're lucky enough to call home.

"It all makes me very proud of the club and the individuals involved."

Runners stream out of Portinscale at the start of the Keswick HalfRunners stream out of Portinscale at the start of the Keswick Half (Image: Ben Challis)