A BOXING coach from Worcester was punching the air after completing a gruelling world record attempt to raise money for his club.

James Grant, who is a former Royal Marine, said he had “never experienced pain like it” when he did 443 burpees in one hour and 22 minutes in a bid to secure a Guinness World Record.

The mile-long challenge, which took place at Nunnery Wood Sports Complex on Saturday, June 25, has also seen Grant generate more than £1,000 for Worcester City Amateur Boxing Club.

After putting together a 12-month training regime, the 38-year-old said he was hopeful he had what it took to break the record.

But he admitted it was the “motivational” support of the crowd who turned out on the day that got him over the finishing line.

“I had a really strict diet and had done various track sessions, so I was not only physically ready, but also mentally prepared for it,” he said.

“I had an idea of what time I wanted to do it in and just went out and did it.

“But in all my years - even in the marines - I have never experienced pain like it in the last 200 metres of the final lap.

“It was just horrific.

“But the support that everybody gave me on the day was phenomenal and the time keepers were motivating me.”

Grant said he was determined to rake in much-needed cash for the popular club after his son Max started boxing eight months ago.

“The first time I walked into the club I saw it needed a cash injection,” he said.

“We have currently raised £1,260, which is brilliant as we can do so much with that and get some great equipment to help the kids.”

Grant claims to now hold the “unofficial record” and is hoping to receive the Guinness World Records seal of approval later this summer.

“I have got to submit everything, so any media coverage, four statements and the video which Paul Attwood has done for me,” he added.

“Guinness World Records will then sift through the evidence and make a decision, but unofficially I definitely hold the record.”

To donate, visit visit www.gofundme.com/burpeemile