ONE of the sharpest climbs in the Lake District will form the focus of a combined fell and trail run this autumn.

The Wansfell 10k – part of September's Festival of the Fells in Ambleside – will see hardy runners battle it out on the peaks above the town.

Athletes will tackle the renowned steep incline from Rothay Park to the summit of Wansfell Pike – a non-stop ascent sure to leave them with burning legs and lungs.

The route goes on to take in the summit of Wansfell itself, before returning to the top of the Pike and a descent back through the woods at the side of Windermere to Rothay Park.

The race will be run on Sunday, September 24, as part of Festival of the Fells, which will also feature guided walks, Nordic walking and guided swims.

Last year’s race – the inaugural event – was started by fell-running legend Joss Naylor.