BIG-HEARTED fundraisers pushed prams around a running track for 12 continuous hours to raise thousands of pounds for two worthy causes.

Staff at investment company IFDS, based in St Nicholas Lane, Basildon, took on the "pramathlon" challenge at Basildon Sporting Village, in Cranes Farm Road.

The challenge saw workers push five prams around the outdoor athletics track, completing 1,000 laps and 100km between them during the day.

The employees are hoping to raise £3,000, which will go towards their two chosen charities, CLIC Sargent and St Luke's Hospice.

The 200 people involved continuously pushed prams round the track from 7am until 7pm.

Max Webster, 23, a graduate at IFDS, said the day was a huge success and he was extremely pleased to have raised so much for the two charities.

He said: “It was going on for 12 hours, people were coming and going all day. It went really well, a lot of money was raised.

"The prams kept going the entire time for all 12 hours. One pram totalled 100km throughout the day. There were five prams in total that were kept moving by different employers.”

Mr Webster added: “This is not a new craze taking Essex by storm, it is an act of charity by the big-hearted employees of IFDS.

“What would possess people to undertake such a gruelling feat? The answer is the prospect of helping CLIC Sargent and St. Luke’s Hospice support them in continuing all the amazing work they are doing.

“CLIC Sargent are changing what it means to be diagnosed with cancer while young, by providing care to those afflicted.

“St Luke’s Hospice, based in Basildon, provides expert care to those in the advanced stages of palliative conditions.

It is hoped the workers will receive more donations after the event.

Mr Webster said: “All the money raised will be split between these incredibly worthy charities, and with such grand participation in such an ambitious challenge, the total raised is sure to be lofty."

To donate, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/pramathlon2016.