A Cumbrian rowing club recently completed a 24-hour marathon to raise money and awareness for mental health charities.

Members from Windermere Rowing Club, as well as their family and friends, committed themselves to 30-minute slots to make it through the entire day of arduous fundraising.

The money raised, with a current total of £3,800, will be going to Mind and Papyrus, charities committed to improving the mental wellbeing of people across the UK.

The Westmorland Gazette: The rowers in action during the marathonThe rowers in action during the marathon (Image: Molly Conway-Gill)

One of the organisers and participants, Molly Conway, said: "The day went really well - it was definitely one of the toughest things I've ever done physically and mentally, but also the most rewarding.

"It was a complete rollercoaster with the early Saturday morning from 3:00am to 6:00am being the most difficult but we had an amazing team, so we rallied each other.

"Despite some aches and pains, after a good night’s sleep we were out rowing on the lake again the following morning!"

Read more: Windermere rowers to fundraise for Mind and Papyrus in charity event | The Westmorland Gazette

Over the 24 hours, the team covered 610 miles, just over the length of the UK from Lands End to John O’Groats.

The Westmorland Gazette: The team (L-R): Asher Conway, Cameron Lee, Daniella Flemons, Molly Conway, William Warwick, Bridie Hamilton and Erin Conway.The team (L-R): Asher Conway, Cameron Lee, Daniella Flemons, Molly Conway, William Warwick, Bridie Hamilton and Erin Conway. (Image: Molly Conway)

Molly added: "It was amazing to see that we had struck a chord with so many people and we were really touched that people came to support with so many personal stories as this was our goal, to raise money but also to create an open conversation around mental health. 

"The idea for this event was borne of a personal story for me and inspired by an incredible person, so to raise so much has been fantastic - I’ve been quite emotional about it."

The initial goal was to reach £1000 so that each charity could get a £500 donation, but the generosity of their supporters has seen that target smashed.

"Windermere is a small club compared to others across the UK and a few club members have told me how proud they are to see the name of the club be put out there and reflected so positively.

"A couple of people have mentioned that they were inspired to put their name on the learn to row waitlist for 2024 because of how much they’d enjoyed rowing in the 24-hour row, which is amazing!"

The fundraising page is still active and you can donate here.