Margaret, 45, and her twin Mary ran the 72 miles in 22 hours and 30 minutes to join an elite band of fell-runners - and qualify for membership of the Bob Graham Club.

It was Cumbrian Bob Graham, who first completed the round in 1932 in a pyjama jacket, shorts and plimsolls.

Since then just over 2,000 have registered for the run, but only 900 have achieved it.

Last week, though, triumphant Margaret let the Guardian into the simple secret of completing the Bob Graham challenge.

Jelly Babies.

"They are a bit of a fell-running secret," said Margaret, of Lindop Close. "They are easy to carry and full of energy."

The sisters travelled light for the mammoth challenge.

"Fell running is about the freedom of running without back packs," said Margaret, who was supported by a team of 16.

"When you are hiking you usually carry a lot of stuff with you, but you can travel light and cover much more ground."

The pair, who ran through the night with head torches, kept each other going by talking.

"It was even more special to be able to complete it with my sister," said Margaret. "When one was feeling low we kept each other going."

The twins' families, friends and mum were there to support them when they stopped briefly at the foot of Helvellyn, Sca Fell, Scafell Pike and Skiddaw.

But after almost a year's intensive training and one failed attempt nothing could have prepared the twins as they crossed the finish line hand in hand.

"To me it was better than any Olympic gold medal," said Margaret.

"It's difficult to put into words, but I was elated. It was a dream come true."

They had even had time to take in the views.

"When the mist cleared at night you had a beautiful view of the stars," said Margaret, a doctor at Knutsford's Community Hospital. "It was so tranquil."

The sisters, who didn't have a single blister, celebrated with champagne and an evening meal.

But they soon had itchy feet again.

"We went rock climbing the next day," said Margaret.

"I don't think I ever want to see one again," she said. "I don't even like them."

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