We did it: Russell Dodds, left, and Matthew Darch have completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in a bid to raise money for the British Heart Foundation. (Picture: Supplied)

THREE walkers from in and around the Sleaford area have completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

Russell Dodds, 42, and Matthew Darch, 31, from Sleaford, along with Clive Allen, 51, formerly from Sleaford, hiked 25 miles and raised £400 for the charity.

They completed the challenge in nine hours and 28 minutes – half-an-hour less than when they took part five years ago.

A record number of more than 500 entrants took part on the day, with the aim of raising more then £75,000.

Sleaford Ramblers member Russell said: "It was a strenuous 25-mile hike, starting from Horton in Ribblesdale through the Yorkshire Dales National Park and over three of the highest mountain peaks in Yorkshire – Pen-Y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.

"The walk started at 6.20am and the weather made ideal walking conditions. There wasn't a muscle in either leg that didn't hurt, though.

"We would like to thank all who have supported and sponsored us."

Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so at http://original.justgiving.com/sprout

To join the Sleaford Ramblers call the group secretary on (01529) 410288 or via the ramblers website at www.ramblers.org.uk