The Nine Edges entrants will raise cash for Edale Mountain Rescue Team

Outdoor enthusiasts are being urged to encourage contestants in a fundraising challenge this weekend.

The annual Nine Edges Endurance Challenge is a 32km (20-mile) race across the Peak District’s gritstone crags, with competitors running, walking and climbing the route.

The event is the main fundraiser for Edale Mountain Rescue Team, and takes in the crags at Derwent, Stanage, Burbage North and South, Froggatt, Curbar, Baslow, Gardoms and Birchen Edges. Climbing of routes during the challenge is optional.

A spokesperson from Edale MRT said: “Entries to the event are now full, but spectators have the opportunity to see the competitors as they battle through 20 miles, and 900m of ascent, in a truly special off-road adventure.

“Each participant paid £20 to take part in the event, and this goes to funding Edale Mountain Rescue Team, and our vital service provided to the local community and to visitors to the area.”

The rescue team will also staff checkpoints along the route and provide safety cover.

The challenge starts at Fairholmes, at the northern end of Ladybower Reservoir, before heading south to end at the Robin Hood pub at Baslow.

Much of the route if over rough moorland, and participants’ navigational skills will be tested as well as their fitness and stamina.

An option to tackle the challenge on mountain bikes, offered in previous years, is no longer included for the 300 starters. The challenge has been run for six years.