FELLRUNNING legend Joss Naylor is recovering after being admitted to hospital prompting messages of support from people across Cumbria.

Joss Naylor MBE, who is best known for his career as a fellrunner and multi-record holder, was taken to hospital with a suspected stroke before Christmas.

Joss has set numerous records as a fell runner and is known as the King of the Fells, and the Iron Man.

The Fell Runners Association said: "Just before Christmas, Joss was taken into hospital with a suspected stroke. He was subsequently assessed as to the cause and has now started what will be a tiring course of treatment and physio.

"He is in good spirits and, as expected, determined as ever.

"We know that the fell-running community will want to send him their best wishes for a speedy recovery though we would appreciate it if he is not contacted directly at the moment.

"On behalf of the FRA and the fell running community, we send our love and good wishes for a full and speedy recovery to our very good friend and legend of the fells, Ironman Joss."

Since his treatment began messages of support have been sent from the fellrunning community, and from residents of Cumbria as a whole.

Joss’ friend and fellow runner Peter Hunter said: “I wish him a speedy recovery and to get out of hospital as soon as possible.

“So many people follow Joss on social media and Instagram and they have all been sending in so many lovely messages in support of him.

“He’s an absolute legend and his reputation definitely goes before him.

“He’s held in very high esteem for a lot of Cumbrians.”

Joss recently completed the Millom Parkrun first time after being invited by Eileen Jones.

She said: “We loved him so much for being a sport and coming along to his first parkrun at Millom.

“The whole parkrun community wishes him a speedy recovery.”

He also visited the Windermere ladies running club and surprised its members back in May this year, after being contacted by personal trainer Susie Anton.

Susie said: “On behalf of the Susie Anton Fitness and wellness community I would like to send lots of love and well wishes for a speedy recovery to the absolute legend Joss.”