This year marks a special anniversary for 70 year old Colin Phillips of Barrow. Having completed his first Keswick to Barrow back in 1973 he will this year be competing in his 40th walk.

This remarkable achievement has only ever been achieved by Gordon Ingall back in 2013.

Looking back at his first walk, Colin said: “Back in 1973 I was told by my boss in the Town Hall that it would be a laugh and we should give it a go.

"I’m still not certain if I agreed but somehow a mate and I found ourselves shivering on Abbey Road waiting for a bus at 4.30 am that was late and that we thought (and possibly hoped) would never come.

"It didn't help but in those days we thought we could drink quite a few pints on a Friday night and be utterly invincible.

Colin can’t tell you his fastest time, his goal is only ever to finish, in fact as he freely admits to being a a walker who enjoys eating, drinking and socialising en route.

According to Colin, 'meeting new people every year is one of the most rewarding aspects'.

He said: “I keep coming back because I don't fancy doing support, they are the real heroes.

"I suppose it is in my blood now. I have felt very grateful to have been given the fitness and stamina to be able to keep doing it and in recent years my three sons Steve, Mike and Dave have taken part as well and encouraged me to keep going to my 40th, even though every year for the last 10 years was my last.

"I have also been well supported by my fiancee Barbara who regularly walks the last mile in with me.”

Talking more about the popular event, Colin said: "You won’t find a better atmosphere in an event, it brings together people of all ages and backgrounds with the common goal of raising huge amounts for good causes."

Colin has seen many changes over the year but the introduction of electronic tags rather than the often sodden piece of card you had to get at stamped at checkpoints is his favourite.

With 40 years under his belt Colin knows what is needed to complete the K2B.

He said: “Plenty of training on roads, your knees take a real pounding, it may seem a long way but it is a beautiful route just keep thinking of the two free drinks at the end. And have some warm clothing for the finish, it always feels very cold when you stop.”