Burnley fitness coaches raise thousands for Pendleside Hospice with mammoth 36-hour rowing challenge

Three fitness instructors didn't just imagine it, they actually completed it and have raised the magnificent total of £6,000 for charity. The back breaking challenge was smashed by fellow coaches at LM Fitness in Colne.

Owner Liam Mcfarlane was joined by colleagues Pete Williams and Steve Backhouse and together they took it in turns to keep an indoor rower going for the full 36 hours.

The cash they have raised will be split between Pendleside Hospice and Battle Cancer, a non profit organisation launched by Pete which has staged fundraising events across the world to raise thousands of pounds for cancer charities.

Battle Cancer was born after Pete, who is from Burnley, organised a charity power lifting challenge called Raise the Titanic in 2016. Pete and his Battle Cancer partner Scott Britton, along with a team of volunteers, broke the world record for weight lifting when they lifted the 52,000 ton weight of the ill fated ocean liner in a day.

Steve worked out a programme for the trio so they each rowed for 20 minutes then took a 40 minute break for food or to grab a quick power nap.

Pete admitted that the challenge was as tough mentally as it was physically.

Pete said: "It all had to be logistically worked out, especially how much food and drink we would need as without the right amount I don't think we would have completed it. It was tough, especially during the early hours of the morning."

The trio inspired other gyms across Lancashire to get involved in the challenge and help to boost the funds raised. Pete was inspired to launch his terrific fundraising as a thanks for the help and care his father received from Macmillan Nurses while being treated for cancer.

Money raised in the row will go towards the arm of Battle Cancer which supports and guides young people who have been treated for he disease back into fit and healthy lifestyles.Pete added that the total could still top the £6,000 mark as they were waiting for contributions from the other gyms that took part.

Donations can still be made to Battle Cancer by clicking here or the hospice by clicking here.