FITNESS fanatics in Ramsbottom took on a mountainous challenge to support two great causes.

Members of FuseFit personal training company ran the equivalent of the height of Mount Everest in just 24 hours to raise much needed funds for The Joshua Wilson Brain Tumour SuperJosh Charity and Bury Hospice.

They were also joined by runners from Bespoke Landscapes, Peel Pumps and Holcombe Tap.

The unique challenge was thought up by FuseFit owner Ashley Reece and saw the runners following a looping route up to Peel Tower from the Hare and Hounds in Holcombe Brook.

Mr Reece said: “At the beginning of 2020 we set out as a group to complete 12 challenges in 12 months for the SuperJosh Charity and Bury Hospice, both doing great work in our local communities.

"However, with the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic we had to adapt what we had planned.

"We wanted to do something on a big scale to really challenge ourselves. Physical activity and pushing your boundaries isn’t just great for your physical health but also your mental health too.

"This is more important now than ever and I’m very proud of the team at FuseFit for getting behind this amazing event and giving it their all."

On May 23 the runners battled gale-force winds as they embarked on their epic run ­— all while following strict social distancing rules.

To successfully complete the challenge the athletes had to complete one lap every 28 minutes between noon on Saturday and noon on Sunday.

However despite the difficulties they successfully completed the distance and raised £8,000 for their two charities in the process.

Mr Reece said: "The weather conditions on the day and night meant this was an even bigger challenge that we could have imagined.

"I’m just over the moon with the result and the amount we have raised for the charities is just fantastic.”

Samantha Gibbs, from The Joshua Wilson Brain Tumour Charity, added:

“We can’t thank Ashley and his amazing team enough ­— the challenge was huge and they have well and truly smashed their goals.

"The money raised will go direct to support those that need it most – children and families living with brain tumours and post-surgery disabilities.

"Thank you to each and every person who took part, sponsored, donated and supported the FuseFit team. Your efforts will make a huge difference to your local communities.”