This was my tenth tough mudder, back where it all started for me and it didn't disappoint. Once again I may have signed up for this one alone but I certainly didn't run it alone! Tough mudder is great not only for a fun and challenging day out but also for the people you meet out on course. 

Registration was nice and straight forward and the event village was easy to navigate. Warm was fun but also managed to get all the safety information across as well. Course was well sign posted and you never once felt lost. Plenty of obstacles by new and old - block ness monster will always be a personal favourite. 

Only a few little niggles for me this year - there seemed to be less marshals out on course this year - the ones that were there were fantastic I just felt less marshal presence then other Tough Mudders. Also the aid stations were lacking this time round - water and lucozade at all 3 however a sore lack of food offered compared to other years - a banana at the second one and a small square at flapjack at the third (flapjack should have been offered much earlier in my opinion). 

Despite that had an amazing day. Whilst tough mudders are expensive you do get lots for you money. T-shirt, headband, free photos and much more. The atmosphere is always amazing and it's a great event to push you out of your comfort zone!

Possibly one of the ultimate challenges is to complete a Tough Mudder.

TM North West is set in the beautiful grounds of Cholmondeley Castle in rural South Cheshire.

The course is challenging - obviously with the obstacles throughout the course - but also with hills and wooded areas that really take it out of you with uneven trails and natural cover that blocks out the sun (if there is any).

Support can be sparse at times but there are spectators, although I find that they are normally waiting for someone they know to pass so there isn't that much encouragement for all participants. The volunteers out on the course do however provide a huge amount of support, they are mostly made up of people who have taken part in TM events so know exactly what you are going through.

The obstacles are some of the best you can get on the OCR circuit and there is a good mix of water and climbing obstacles.

Legionnaires (participants who have completed 1 or more TM events) are rewarded with some alternative obstacles which push you just that little bit further and provide motivation to take part in future events.

The pre/post TM facilities are okay - decent food vendors, merch stalls and sponsor stalls are in the TM village.

The finishers haul is pretty decent as well - drinks (water, energy & alcoholic), tshirt, energy food and the all important headband! 

Discounted entry for the next years event is also on offer on completion of a survey post event.

The biggest Tough Mudder events are always a party atmosphere. You don't get people pushing and shoving for the best start place as the event is not time based. It's about getting around having the maximum amount of fun.

The headband makes you part of the club and the beer at the end is much needed. 

The obstacles are enjoyable and challenging enough.