TECHNIHEAT PLANT SERVICES LIMITED

TPS Engineer James Kermode Completes Britain’s Most Brutal Endurance Race

26-01-2026

We’re proud to share that James Kermode, one of our engineers at TPS, has successfully completed the Winter Spine UK Challenge 2026 – widely regarded as Britain’s most brutal endurance expeditio

The Montane Winter Spine Race is a non-stop challenge covering the full length of the Pennine Way, stretching from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders. Competitors have 168 hours to finish, while tackling over 10,000 metres of climbing across some of the most demanding terrain in England, including the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian’s Wall, and the Cheviots.

It’s not just the distance that makes this event legendary – it’s the conditions. The Winter Spine exposes runners to the full force of the British winter, including deep snow, driving rain and storm-force winds. It’s a true test of physical endurance and mental toughness.

James’ Result

James completed the challenge in extraordinary fashion, finishing with the following stats:

293.0 miles
48,875 ft elevation
Time: 147:14:10
Position: 48 / 165
Over 50% DNF rate, showing just how tough the race conditions were

As James put it in his own words, the experience required him to adapt to whatever the race threw at him, including being completely drenched and having to “become comfortable in being uncomfortable”.

He also highlighted how important a positive mindset was, particularly when hit with extreme conditions early on in the race – including on Kinder Scout on day one.

James described the final moments into Kirk Yetholm as an unforgettable memory, made even more special by the support of Hannah Bellis, who cheered him on at the finish and helped him through the hardest parts of the race.

Fundraising for Blesma, The Limbless Veterans

Alongside completing the Winter Spine, James also raised money for a cause close to his heart.

So far he has raised £1,740 for Blesma, The Limbless Veterans, helping to support UK service men and women.

A TPS Team Member Through and Through

James has worked with TPS for five years and has steadily increased his skill set and experience within our commercial heating and cooling sector. He’s a great contributor to the wider team effort, and outside of work he’s no stranger to the outdoors – often fell walking and running with his dogs in the Peak District.

Within the engineering team, his nickname says it all:

“Jimmy Grylls.”

From everyone at TPS – well done James. An incredible achievement, and one the whole team is proud of.