Dan Jarvis approaches Snake Summit during The Trigger. Photo: Adrian Ashworth

Dan Jarvis approaches Snake Summit during The Trigger. Photo: Adrian Ashworth/Everything Outdoors

A Member of Parliament was among 200 runners who took to the Peak District hills to support a mountain rescue team.

Barnsley South Labour MP Dan Jarvis joined competitors in the Trigger Fell Race on Sunday to raise cash for the Woodhead team.

The race, run in very cold and windy conditions, followed a 38km (23-mile) route across some of the national park’s highest ground, between Marsden in West Yorkshire and Edale in Derbyshire.

The race is the brainchild of fellrunner Nicky Spinks and her partner Steve, who live in the area.

Six runners had to retire through injury, but 194 of the 200 starters made it to the finish line.

Macclesfield-based runner Simon Harding won the race in a time of 3hrs 25mins, with Jasmine Paris of Scots club Carnethy taking the women’s trophy with a time of 3hrs 52mins.

Mr Jarvis, a former Parachute Regiment officer, said: “I’ve been looking forward to the challenge, albeit with some trepidation.

“There’s nothing like a trek across the Peak District to refresh you after a long week in Westminster, but I have to confess the amount of preparation I have done has been limited.”

Competitors climb Bleaklow during The Trigger. Photo Everything Outdoors

Competitors climb Bleaklow during The Trigger. Photo: Everything Outdoors

“Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team does a great job in all weathers helping out those who have got into difficulties.

“That people are prepared to volunteer to do this job and to go out, often at very short notice, is hugely to their credit. I look forward to supporting their work again in the future.”

Woodhead team leader Keith Wakeley said: “It was a very tough race; conditions very difficult underfoot and the low visibility as the competitors were tired and approaching Kinder Scout only added further complexity.

“However, everyone got back safe and well after thoroughly enjoying the challenging event.”

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