Cumbrian runner was a revered and popular figure after setting multiple records on the mountains and trails

Legendary record-breaking fell runner Joss Naylor has died at the age of 88.

The Cumbrian sheep farmer broke the Lake District 24-hour record three times and ran the fastest known times on the Three Peaks, Welsh 3,000ers and Pennine Way.

Born in Wasdale Head, he struggled with injuries as a teenager but took up running in 1960 aged 24. From then on he was unstoppable, improving with age as he rewrote the fell running record books during the 1970s and 1980s.

In 1971 he completed the national Three Peaks Challenge of Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 11hr 54min including driving time.

His 1974 record on the Pennine Way of 3 days, 4hr and 36min lasted until 1989. In 1975 he climbed 72 peaks, which is thought to involve more than 100 miles and about 38,000ft of ascent in 23hr 20min, a record which stood until 1988.

In 1986, aged 50, he ran all 214 Wainwrights in seven days. When he turned 60 he ran 60 Lakeland fell-tops in 36 hours and at 70 ran 70 Lakeland fells.

Aged 80 in 2016, he ran from Caldbeck to Wasdale a distance of almost 50km. During some of these efforts he raised thousands of pounds for the Brathay Trust, a charity he supported for several years.

Such achievements led to him being awarded an MBE.

Stuart Ferguson, chair of The Fell Runners Association, said: We are hugely saddened by the news that the legend that is Joss Naylor has passed away. Joss inspired so many and will be ever remembered for what he gave to our unique sport.

Naylor was in great health until 2021 when he suffered a stroke.

The Brathay Trust added: His unwavering commitment to our mission and his passion for the outdoors left an indelible mark on our organisation.

Josss legendary feats as a fell runner and his tireless advocacy for young people resonated with all of us. His spirit of adventure, resilience, and love for the Lake District inspired countless individuals, both within and beyond our community.

As we mourn his loss, let us remember Joss Naylor as a beacon of determination, kindness, and camaraderie. His legacy will forever echo through the hills and valleys he traversed, and in the hearts of those he touched.