FEARS are again growing that the Lyke Wake Race may not take place this summer due to low entry numbers.

The 42-mile walking and fell running race across the North York Moors has been held annually since 1964. The only time it has been cancelled was during the foot-and-mouth crisis of 2001.

Organisers have now warn-ed that unless more entrants come forward, the race will not take place.

They said it was not financially viable unless about 70 people take part to cover the cost of the 60 communications people, caterers and marshals needed.

The closing date for entries is June 19 for the event, which is scheduled for July 10, but if there is not a sufficient number of applications by May 1, the race will be cancelled.

It was almost called off last year because just six people had signed up by the end of May.

The event is open to walkers, harriers and fell runners capable of completing the Osmotherley to Ravenscar route in less than 12 hours.

Application forms are available by sending a stamped, addressed envelope to the Lyke Wake Club, PO Box 24, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 3HZ. The entry fee is £10 if received before May 1 and £12 after that date.