Record-breaking runner Joss Naylor dubbed ‘King of the Fells’ for his long-distance feats dies aged 88
VETEREN fell runner Joss Naylor, known as the King of the Fells, has died aged 88.
The Climbers Shop in Ambleside, Cumbria, confirmed the running legend passed away on Friday evening “in the company of family and friends”.
Martin Campbell / Brathay TrustLegendary fell runner Joss Naylor, known as the King of the Fells, has died aged 88[/caption]
The record-breaking sheep farmer ran the fastest known times on the Three Peaks, Welsh 3,000ers and Pennine Way.
He also smashed the Lake District 24-hour record a whopping three times.
The Fell Runners Association was “hugely saddened” by Joss’ death, and said he “inspired so many”.
Chairman of The Fell Runners Association, Stuart Ferguson, 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.”
And close pal, Terry Abraham, paid a touching tribute which read: “Joss still holds the record for running up and down England’s highest peak in 47 minutes.
“A humble, down to earth man whose incredible athleticism was known and respected around the world let alone within Cumbria.
“The word legend is often used too lightly nowadays.
“Joss Naylor really was a legend. The Iron Man. The King of the Fells.
“His nicknames go on and on across generations.”
Joss was born on February 10, 1936 in Wasdale Head, Cumbria and began running when he was 24-years-old.
At the age of 50 he completed all 214 Wainwrights in just seven days.
A decade later, the icon ran 60 Lakeland fell-tops in 36 hours, then when on to smash 70 Lakeland fells at the age of 70.
He was awarded an MBE for his impressive services to sport and charity in 2007.
Joss raised an eye-watering £40,000 for the Brathay Trust, external, for whom he was a patron, through his races.
Fundraising manager, Scott Umpleby, said: “He’s known for his incredible running achievements, but he used his running to support local charities, including disadvantaged children and young people.”
