When it comes to British fell running, there has simply never been anyone to match the achievements and status of Joss Naylor. Born, raised and spending pretty much all of his life farming in the isolated lake district hamlet of Wasdale head, he established time and distance records that have stood the test of time, and 30, 40, 50 years on from when they were set, most of his achievements still appear super-human to we mere mortals. He continued covering long distances over the mountains until well into his seventies, and retained his close interest in fell running events throughout his life.
Sadly Joss passed away at the end of June at the age of 88 years.
I wouldn’t presume to try and write some short biography of such an extraordinary athlete and human being, when a quick google search will find thousands of column inches devoted to him, offering more insight and detail than I could manage. I would though, just point anyone that’s interested in the direction of a marvellous book – simply entitled Joss. Written by Keith Richardson, it is a remarkable book, that includes uncomfortable detail of a tough upbringing. Life in the remote valleys 80 odd years ago was raw in a way that today’s young people would find unbearable. In Joss Naylor’s case it shaped the man he became; single minded, determined, with no side to him and inherently a decent and dignified man who brought nothing but honour to his sport. Follow this link for more info, and how to purchase the book direct from the publisher: https://www.rivergretawriter.co.uk/
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