OXFAM'S gruelling Trailtrekker challenge will return again next year.

The event - which sees participants walk or run 100km across the Dales - will take place over the weekend of August 22 and 23.

First launched in 2009, the event has become one of the most respected and toughest walking challenges in the country.

The route - the equivalent distance of two and a half marathons with an ascent of 2,300 metres - starts and finishes in Skipton and takes in Malham, Fountains Fell, Buckden and Conistone.

It is based on a Gurkha training exercise, with teams trekking non-stop, night and day.

Past competitor Robin Russel-Fisher said: "It was the most demanding physical event I have ever done and - at 56 - possibly likely to do! But the euphoria of completing the event, and in raising money for a great cause, made it utterly worthwhile."

Louise Gebbett from Oxfam added: “Taking on something as tough as Trailtrekker is an amazing achievement which is made even more rewarding with the knowledge that you are helping Oxfam deliver life changing work across the world.”

As well as the 100km challenge, teams have the opportunity to take up shorter bronze (40km) or silver (65km) distances.

To enter or for more information, visit oxfam.org.uk/trailtrekker