A TEAM of volunteers from a vets' practice have raised nearly £7,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind after taking part in a tough mountain challenge.

Three vets, three receptionists and a nurse from Marske Vets, near Redcar, and the nurse's son, took part in the Keswick Challenge.

To collect sponsorship, the team had to complete a six-mile canoe paddle, a 26-mile cycle ride and a ten-mile mountain walk.

They joined 20 other groups taking part in the Lake District challenge to raise money for the charity.

Vet James Haddow said: "It took a massive effort and was really exhausting, but we enjoyed the challenge.

"We only needed a team of six, but we had eight, so instead of needing just four of the team of six to complete the course to qualify, we were told that all eight of us had to get through to that stage."

The team, which had no canoe experience had several setbacks on route, including two broken bikes.

But the team members finished within the ten-hour limit, clocking up eight hours and 35 minutes.

"We all felt proud of our success," said Mr Haddow.

"We have had a fantastic response from people for sponsorship and we've still got money coming in. The public have been amazing."