Millions of people cried over the sudden death of this iconic legend
Joss Naylor, the renowned runner known as the “King of the Fells” for his incredible long-distance achievements, has passed away at the age of 88.
Hailing from Cumbria, Joss Naylor was a legendary fell runner. He passed away on Friday night, surrounded by family and friends.
News of his death was confirmed by numerous heartfelt messages sent to the Climbers Shop in Ambleside.
Joss Naylor was celebrated for setting the fastest times on the Three Peaks, the Welsh 3,000ers, and the Pennine Way. He also broke the Lake District 24-hour record three times and was a dedicated sheep farmer.
The Fell Runners Association expressed deep sorrow at his passing, stating that Joss had “inspired so many.”
“We are very sad to hear that Joss Naylor has died. He was a legend,” said Stuart Ferguson, chairman of The Fell Runners Association. “Joss inspired so many and will be ever remembered for what he gave to our unique sport.”
Terry Abraham, a close friend, paid tribute on social media: “Joss still holds the record for running up and down England’s highest peak in 47 minutes.”
Admired globally, not just in Cumbria, Joss was known for his athletic prowess, humility, and down-to-earth nature. “These days, people use the word ‘legend’ too loosely. I really think Joss Naylor was a legend. The Iron Man. The Fells’ King. His nicknames go on and on across generations.”
Born in Wasdale Head, Cumbria, on February 10, 1936, Joss started running at the age of 24. Remarkably, he completed all 214 Wainwrights in just seven days when he was 50 years old. Over the next decade, he ran 60 Lakeland fell-tops in 36 hours and, at 70, ran 70 Lakeland fells.
In 2007, he was awarded an MBE for his outstanding services to sport and charity. Through his races, Joss raised an impressive £40,000 for the Brathay Trust.
Scott Umpleby, who is in charge of fundraising, remarked, “He’s famous for how fast he ran, but he also used his running to help local charities, like helping kids and teens who are in need. He was always so happy. He was a legend, and people would wait in line to see him.”
Even last year, despite being in a wheelchair, Joss was determined to attend events.
Reflecting on his impact, a statement from the 1000m Welsh Peaks Race on their Facebook page read: “The fell and mountain running community across the UK will have been touched by his steady presence over decades, and now his sad death. Thank you for a long history of great running in the Welsh 1000m Peaks Race, including many important wins in the early 1970s.”
“Diolch yn fawr iawn Joss Naylor – gorffwys mewn heddwch.”
