MORE than £3,300 has been raised for a hospital ward by a team of intrepid runners to thank the staff for their work.

David Lord, construction manager at Burnley College, was joined by colleagues Simon Jordan, deputy principal, Solomon Whittaker, curriculum manager and Paul Whittaker, head of student services, on the challenge.

Together, they took on the 50 mile ‘ultra-marathon’ over the Yorkshire Three Peaks to raise funds for the Royal Blackburn Hospital Stroke Unit. The runners set off at 6am and returned more than 12 hours later.

David was inspired to raise the money after his mum had a stroke recently and spent time on the ward.

Lancashire Telegraph:

David with mum Norma

He said: “Anyone who knows me will know, how important family is to me. 

“Several weeks ago my mum Norma had a stroke and we were told that she would not survive due to the extent of bleed in her brain there was very little they could do for her. As a family we came together. 

“We were absolutely devastated, we spent hours next to mum alongside my brothers Paul and Shaun, my wife, sister-in-laws and all her grandchildren willing her to get better.

“Miraculously, she improved and continues to improve and is making progress everyday.

"Although she will never be the same again we thank our lucky stars that she is here and continues to fight. She has surprised all the staff with how well she is doing.”

David an experienced runner who has in the past completed the London Marathon had, as of Monday raised £3,310, more than £2,000 more than his initial target.

In the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, people scale the Dales's three highest points - Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.

The 24-mile route - which David and his running partners covered twice - includes almost 1,600 metres of ascents and usually takes walkers around 12 hours to complete.

You can still support David's campaign by clicking here.