A CHARITY fundraiser has raised hundreds of pounds thanks to a runathon at a Worcester gym.

The event, which took place at Topnotch gym in Worcester's Cathedral Square, saw a group of participants complete the running challenge for charity.

It revolved around the participants running on a treadmill for a total of 12 hours from 8am to 8pm on Tuesday, March 26.

This was put together for a cause known as the Epilepsy Society, which is the UK's only charity transforming the lives of people with epilepsy through world-leading research, advocacy and care.

Mya Hawkesford-Barnes, who was one of the participants, said she approached Topnotch gym with the idea of hosting a fundraiser for the charity.

"I wanted to do something to celebrate Purple Day as I am an ambassador for Epilepsy Society," she said.

"I am a member at the gym so I asked them if I could host an event.

"They said yes and helped me come up with ideas for a fundraiser, which was in aid of epilepsy awareness."

The idea ended up being a 12-hour runathon, and Miss Barnes, aged 24, was among those who took part and ended up running for almost six hours.

"Luckily because I know the members and the staff they supported me and gave me breaks in between," she said.

"My legs were hurting for a few days afterwards. 

"There were loads of participants, I would say around 30. I can't give the gym enough credit."

A grand total of £325.09 was raised, and will go towards the Epilepsy Society.

"It was more than I was expecting," added Miss Barnes.

"I didn't set a target, I just wanted to host an event and get what we get.

"But it was a lot more than I was expecting.

"It's a big amount to have made. A lot of members said to me how impressive it was and how it made them feel motivated.

"One of them brought in a child who had epilepsy to see all the signs, which was really nice to see."

Miss Barnes said she did not currently have any further events planned but has raised thousands for charity over the past few years.

"I have a lot of charity tins around Malvern and Worcester - I do a Purple Day event each year," she said.

"If the gym wanted more charity events I would do them because it's a big passion of mine.

"I've raised £2,800 since 2019 from tins and £100 from cakes sales last year."

You can support Miss Barnes' charity work by sending donations to: myahbarnes@icloud.com.