It's heating up out on the Pennine Way - and we don't just mean the muggy conditions - as the Montane Summer Spine Challenger South enters a thrilling phase on its journey from Edale to Hardraw.

At the front of the men's race, Chris Cope having tracked the record pace chip closely for the start of the race, Cope has now broken ahead of it, suggesting he has real belief in his ability to set a new course record. He's built a healthy gap on his nearest rival, and if he can maintain this kind of form across the remaining miles of this demanding Pennine Way route, we could see another course record fall.

The women's race so far is very close. Just four athletes are separated by a remarkably slim margin, making this one of the most competitive Spine Challenger South women's fields in recent memory. Current leader Jodie Cantas is holding her position at the front, but she'll be acutely aware that the pressure is right there behind her. With miles still to go and fatigue beginning to play its part, anything could happen between now and Hardraw.

For ESTR followers tracking our very own Richard Holloway, we're pleased to report he's running exactly to plan. The schedule we set for him is holding up nicely, which is exactly what you want to hear at this stage of the race. Richard will need to keep that discipline going as the course continues to challenge even the most experienced Spine runners.

Just a couple of miles behind Richard, Maria Johnston from Sulby on the Isle of Man is making steady progress and reportedly moving well. The Manx athlete has plenty of miles in her legs and looks well-placed to keep closing that gap as the race progresses.

Weather-wise, conditions are described as muggy out on the moors today, which will be taking its toll on athletes' energy levels and hydration. The good news is there's no indication of conditions worsening, so runners can at least plan their efforts without worrying about incoming weather on this exposed stretch of northern England.

We'll have more updates as the race unfolds. Stay with ESTR for all the latest from the Spine Challenger South.