Not really what you're asking for Karen, but having done this the last two years I would highly recommend it. Obviously it's a very challenging route, but the atmosphere amongst all the runners and volunteers is excellent, really fun and supportive.

As to why its struggling for numbers, I wonder if its partly due to the rise in high profile commercial events which are marketed as really tough etc? The Fellsman entry fee has risen quite a bit (partly due to trackers) which in itself might not be an issue (people are paying hundreds for other events) but I wonder if that has put off some of the more traditional fell crowd? Just a theory. In terms of 'solutions' I can't think of much beyond advertising beyond these traditional areas.