TORRENTIAL downpours failed to dampen the hunger and drive of hundreds of competitors as Ambleside Sports returned for another year.

The competition which attracts athletes from across the UK and has been held in Rydal Park in the Lake District town since 1946, saw cyclists, fell runners and even wrestlers come together to show off their sporting prowess in a number of events.

The day's proceedings were hampered by the weather which caused some events to be altered or cancelled. However, more than £5,500 was still dished out to the competitors as even the losers bagged some cash as a consolation prize.

Simon Bailey, 36, who is the seven-time English fell running champion, unsurprisingly bagged gold in the senior event and travelled all the way from Macclesfield to take part in this prestigious Cumbrian competition.

He said: "It's great that they put on these events, it's such a tradition here and I'm honoured to be able to able to take part. It's also great for the youngsters, I've come up with my family today and it has been great to see my son Oliver run and follow in my footsteps."

Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling has long been a tradition in Cumbria and this year saw the introduction of the first ever women's world championship, which encouraged Gemma Coulthard, 13, from Rosley in north Cumbria, to take part.

She competed in three categories and managed to come top of the pack in the under-15 competition.

Gemma said: "I trained in the winter in Carlisle for this event and then in the summer my family and I go all around the country competing in more than 50 different games.

"It's great that they've introduced the championships at Ambleside this year, especially for us teenagers who can compete with the adults."

As an organisation, Ambleside Sports have provided a stage for athletes to flourish since the 17th century.

Marjorie Blackburn helped to organise today's show and she was grateful that so many of the town folk turned up in their droves despite the poor weather conditions.

She said: "The enthusiasm of our community is brilliant and they really help to drive our sporting traditions.

"The crowds have been surprisingly optimistic despite the bad weather and all the kids have got smiles on their faces which is what we like to see.

"The aim of today is to continue the tradition of some of this county's most treasured sports and thanks to the scholarship scheme, we have been able to encourage more and more schoolkids to get involved."

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