The Manx Blind Welfare Society’s funds have been boosted by more than ?400 thanks to the LivingWell health and fitness club at the Hilton Hotel.

Around ?200 was raised through a Three Legs of Man challenge, organised by the club’s manager Ken Hedley.

Using LivingWell’s exercise equipment, entrants ‘rowed’ around the Island, ‘walked’ the Parish Walk and ‘cycled’ three laps of the TT course, covering some 289 miles (465 kms) in total.

Mr Hedley said, "All the entrants are to be congratulated as this was a tough challenge and, in recognition of their outstanding efforts, the LivingWell will be matching the sum raised pound for pound, bringing the total to in excess of ?400 as some sponsorship money is still coming in."

Completing the challenge in the shortest time - 30 hours 49.55 seconds - was Michael Bonney.

Second was Georgie Hall, in 37 hours 4.45, third, Cath Kelly, 38 hours 14.59, fourth Pat Noon, 45 hours 51.07 and fifth, Karen Kershaw, 50 hours 19.19. 

LivingWell at the Hilton Hotel is part of the Sefton Group, which has selected the Manx Blind Welfare Society as one of its charities to support through 2009. 

Pictured: Challenge winner Michael Bonney (centre) with LivingWell's Manager Ken Hedley and supervisor Kristy Ashe.