Looking for a real challenge in the New Year? Something that leaves you feeling wiped out but satisfied? The Winter Wipeout is a deep-winter half marathon (ish) which takes runners to one of the highest points of Northumberland and back again. Whatever the weather. 

As the race is scheduled for 8 January, runners will need to be prepared to tackle whatever the weather throws at them. Previous years have seen participants run in snow, sleet, bogs, high winds - the full complement! Organisers say: "Last year we had some delightful strong winds trying to knock people off their feet and we always try and get some water in there somewhere as well!"

This is a fell run that really tests resilience as the route involves a climb to the summit of Hedgehope and back down. Participants will enjoy iconic scenery such as Reaveley Hill, Cunyan Crags, Dunmoor, Hedgehope and a bit of the dreaded Comb Fell. 

Although this race is 'roughly' half marathon in distance, the terrain does make it feel further.  The route is fully marked but organisers suggest having some prior knowledge is a great advantage.

Hosted at Ingram cafe which is a prime location for coffee, cakes and all things designed to destroy diets. When runners return to base-camp they will be rewarded with 'a massive pat on the back and some stomach-warming soup' to bring them back to life. In fact, entry includes a custom mug in to which this soup is served! 

You can find out more at the Winter Wipeout website here. 

Image: Cold Brew Events/Martin Ellis