A GROUP of friends are aiming to run one million metres this month to raise money for two mental health charities.

Guy Locke and a group of friends are aiming to run 1,000,000m (1,000km).

Initially they were going to run 100km each - but the group is still growing and Guy is inviting others to take part.

“Our Cheddar-based group sustains a strong connection to the local area and to each other," said Guy.

"We have come up through the local school system together, and then spread across the country, but our sense of community always remains. This solidarity is never stronger than when a loved one is lost.

"Sadly, we have recently suffered another devastating loss to the seemingly invisible struggles of mental health.

"In this moment, we have come together to challenge ourselves by running 100 kilometres each throughout February, originally totalling one million metres, but now many more as the team has grown.

"The aim is to honour our friends and families, whilst raising awareness and vital funds for the organisations on the front line of this issue.

"The money will help provide essential care and support to those that need it most. And help educate all of us on our mental health and the things we can do for our family, friends, colleagues and ourselves.”

The team are running in memory of two particular people: Sofia Legg and Ali Locke.

So far, on day four of the challenge, the runners have raised £8,379 for both Mind and The Space.

Doreen Smith, operations director for The Space, added: “The idea for the fundraiser was sparked from a recent devastating loss.

"Sadly, Somerset has one of the highest records for young suicides in the country, so services such as The Space where we provide free counselling services to children and young people are badly needed.

"This fundraiser will provide a great opportunity to raise awareness of our services and hopefully will encourage children, young people and their families to get in touch.”

The Space is a local, independent Somerset charity dedicated to the support of children and young people aged 4-18 with low mental health and emotional resilience, often in crisis e.g. depression, anxiety, self-harm, potentially caused by issues including abuse and loss.

Mind provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.

To find out more about the challenge and to donate, visit the A Million Metres website at amillionmetres.co.uk.