A GROUP of super-strong men flexed their muscles for a marathon lifting session to raise money for their gym.

Members of the Redcar Amateur Boxing and Sports Club undertook the challenge of lifting one million pounds in weight at Kingsway Leisure Centre last week.

Their aim over a 12-hour period was to raise sufficient money to refurbish a gym that provides boxing training for young men in the town.

The club was established in 1997 and attracts between 40 and 50 boys per session. It is run on three evenings a week by Frankie Wales, 35, a heavy plant operator at Corus.

Since its premises at Coatham Memorial Gym were vandalised, the club has struggled for places to train.

As well as boxing, the club offers members a range of other sports.

Mr Wales said: "Recently, we've taken them to play rugby, cricket and football.

"It's important that we do so as schools aren't able to give large amounts of time to PE these days."

The club is supported by Langbaurgh Primary Care Group's Health Promotion Service.

Last Friday's lift was sponsored by Economy Windows and Kingsway Leisure Centre.

First aid cover at the event was provided by St John Ambulance.