I think we have to accept that many of the better athletes will be tempted by the greater fame and money of other forms of racing.

Andi Jones could probably have a great year on the fells.

However, unless runners have a personal allegiance to fell running, there are too many other types of races that will clash with the champs somehow.

There are lots of decent fell runners who can't manage the champs. For example, it would be good to see the Addison boys target the champs. But I would say that, having included Tom in my relegated fantasy fell running team.

PS. I realise these people have lives as well, and aren't professional athletes motivated by our entertainment. Also, I consider myself solely a fell runner, but I have yet to do all the English champs races in one year.