A team of fitness fans have been preparing to run in one of the country’s hardest assault course races – by training in a play park.

The group taking part in a Tough Mudder challenge this weekend are all members of Renfrewshire Leisure gyms and led by aerobics instructor, Caroline McGivern.

The event is taking place at Drumlanrig Castle, Thornhill, in Dumfriesshire and those taking part will put themselves through a lung-bursting 12-mile obstacle course, tackling ice cold lochs, hills and of course, the strength-sapping seas of mud.

But the Renfrewshire Leisure contingent of Tough Mudders will put themselves through the ordeal for a good cause, as they are being sponsored to complete the course.

They are raising money for the James McFarlane School, in Ardrossan that teaches youngsters with learning difficulties. The school is trying to raise £6000 to buy a special swing that can accommodate children in wheelchairs.

Caroline said: “There are 26 of us doing Tough Mudder and for many of us it’s our first time. But we’re all eager to get really muddy and complete the course.

“Most of the group are pretty fit as they are regulars at the classes Renfrewshire Leisure runs. But to get some extra training, we’ve been going to the play area, at Knockhill Park, Renfrew early in the morning and working out on equipment there, like monkey bars and pull-up bars.

“We hope to raise about £3000 in sponsorship.”

Anyone wishing to sponsor Caroline and her group should email her at calamitycaz.cm@googlemail.com or contact her at Renfrew Leisure Centre on 0300 300 0250.

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