DARTS players at the Albion in Kendal completed a marathon challenge when they played for 24 hours straight to raise money for charity.

Two dozen players took part in the event, organised by Paul Perry, in order to raise money for St John's Hospice in Lancaster.

Inspired to raise money after the death of his cousin Carol, who stayed at the hospice, Paul organised the event which was attended by professional darts player Dace Chisnall.

People came along to play against the professional, as well as to support the 24 hour team and take part in the raffle. Paul estimated that the event raised close to £6,000.

"I cannot thank the 24 guys enough for what they have done," said Paul. "The event has gone extremely well. We are very pleased with the amount we have raised.

"Lots of people took part in the raffle, and lots of people turned up to play against Chissy. Two or three of them managed to beat him!

"We have all really enjoyed it. We are all very close friends through darts. It has been hard work and we are all very tired now.

"It means a lot that people had the commitment to do this. A lot of people would have said they would do it and not seen it through.

"My uncle, Carol's dad, is over the moon with the amount of money we raised.

"The generosity of people coming along and donating, and those who sponsored us, has really been overwhelming. It has been emotional."

Crowds of onlookers cheered as the players passed the 24 hour mark at noon on December 29.

Paul was the last one to throw a dart, marking the end of the successful challenge.

Dave Chisnall, a friend of Paul's, agreed to take part because his grandfather stayed in the hospice at the end of his life.

He played against ambitious challengers on the Thursday of the 24 hour challenge.