THE threat of stormy conditions failed to dampen the spirits of the 25 teams who took part in this year's Dartmoor Challenge this month in aid of disaster relief charity, ShelterBox. 

The sixth annual endurance event was forced to shorten its route on day one following low-lying mist and rainy conditions however by day two, conditions had eased allowing all the teams to make it across the finishing line. 

The ShelterBox Dartmoor Challenge asks teams of four to navigate a tough two-day hike across Dartmoor National Park, carrying a ShelterBox and all the kit they needed to survive a night on the moors.  The route takes them across some of the moors most challenging yet spectacular scenery, including Bellever Tor, Corndon Downs and across the River Dart.

Laura Jepson, ShelterBox fundraising officer, said: 'This year's poor weather was no match for our brave participants. The teams rose to the challenge and it was great to see such a good atmosphere of camaraderie and to see so many familiar faces from previous events.

'All the teams showed real determination and it was wonderful to see so many smiling faces crossing the finish line on Sunday when the sun finally came out, just in time for the BBQ and prize giving.'

The winning team, Dartmouth Rotary Club, completed the gruelling course in just six hours fifteen minutes, winning four tents donated by Vango. The first lady over the line, Laura Roberts from team 3 Men and a Lady, won a rucksack.

This year the Cyril Stringer Memorial Award, for truly exceptional teams, went to the all-girl team, Good Doings.

Laura Jepson said: 'Cyril Stringer was a member of Dartmoor Search and Rescue and a ShelterBox Response Team volunteer who tragically died of cancer before he could go on his first deployment. He was instrumental in the setting up of the Dartmoor Challenge event and was a huge supporter of ShelterBox.' 

All participants received a Dartmoor Challenge t-shirt and many are already preparing for next year's event.

Anyone who's interested in taking part in next year's Dartmoor Challenge can email [email protected]">[email protected] for further information.