A Lake District company has raised more than £1,000 with its running and walking challenge for a local mental health charity.

Ten members of staff from Hawkshead Relish began raising funds at the start of February for Growing Well while doing their allowed daily exercise.

Each member of staff walked or ran a total of 132 km or 82 miles each in all weathers from their individual homes and managed to raise £1374.

Maria Whitehead co-owner of Hawkshead Relish said: "As a team we’ve really enjoyed having the opportunity to individually get outside and help raise funds for Growing Well.

“It’s given us the motivation to do something positive, despite the rain and snow!

“There’s no doubt that the work Growing Well deliver is vital and sadly more of us will need their support in the coming months as a result of the pandemic, which is why I’d encourage everyone to support them.’’

Covid-19 has caused a significant impact on nearly everyone’s mental health, with Growing Well seeing an increase in demand for its services.

Mary Smith, CEO of Growing Well, said: “Hawkshead Relish always goes the extra mile to raise awareness and funds on our behalf.

“A team challenge, such as this, is a very personal way to fundraise.

“It demonstrates the genuine passion that the Hawkshead staff have for Growing Well, and the importance they place on local population mental health.

“Partnerships like this with prestigious local businesses are of massive value to our charity and its beneficiaries.”