THIRTY colleagues at South Lakes Housing have taken up the RED January - Run Every Day - challenge.

Workmates at the Kendal-based social landlord are raising money for mental healthy charity South Lakeland Mind by doing something active every day for 31 days.

Kimberley Andrew, community development and engagement officer for SL Mind, said RED January was bringing the community together and raising awareness through the power of exercise.

"There are opportunities such as urban orienteering every Wednesday throughout January, 6-7pm starting at the Birdcage to meet other REDers and to get active together," she said.

"It is fantastic to see South Lakes Housing taking on the challenge as a team to fundraise for South Lakeland Mind."

Participant Louise Matthews said: "It is a great incentive to get out and do some exercise that I normally would not be motivated to do, but we also get to raise awareness of mental health issues, which are close to my heart.

"I suffer with depression and social anxiety issues. I am hoping to get some benefits, as research shows it improves your mood and reduces anxiety by releasing endorphins. It helps takes your mind off worries, helps you gain confidence and helps you cope in a healthy way."

To find out more, visit www.slmind.org/pages/red.aspx. To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/slh-red