Quote Originally Posted by Mark G View Post
I've no objection to paying a couple of pounds to the LDWA for an entry as a non member but I do like the fellrunning philosophy of open to all, only criteria being ability. The problem is that subscriptions can mount up to a pretty considerable amount of you do a few different activities. I'm a life member of the FRA, and a member of Cumberland Fell Runners the Cyclists Touring Club. But where to stop? British Orienteering (plus local club) BMC, British Canoeing (plus local club) National Trust? The list goes on and on.
I'm not arguing the point but reflecting on changing times. My FRA number is 3xxx. There are now over 8000 members. There used to be fewer LDWA members than in the FRA but it now has 10,000 members.

It is nearly 20 years since I wrote "Will Long 'A' Races Survive" because of the vulnerability of Wasdale and Ennerdale - but who now would imagine that such an article could ever have been necessary?

If memberships continue to grow inevitably event entry criteria will start to be applied and membership will become a priority.