Rugby players at Ashfield RUFC have put their time in lockdown to good use by raising money for the NHS through physical challenges.

The goal for under-16s was to do 100 burpees, sit-ups and press-ups in a week. For those aged 16 years and over, the goal was to complete 200 of each over the week. For anyone up for a tougher challenge, there was a target of 200 of each per day!

More than 60 club members of all ages got involved in the week-long challenge, ranging from 9-year-olds to 55-years-olds.

A spokesman said: “We set ourselves a fitness challenge to help encourage members of the club to keep active in their own homes to support physical and mental wellbeing, and also raise money for our local hospital, King’s Mill Hospital.

“Our goal was to raise £250 but we managed to raise a whopping £1,200 thanks to sponsorship and donations from players, family members and the local community.

“We also put together some goodies for the King’s Mill Community Hub, who accepted our cheque on behalf of staff and patients at the hospital, as well as some hampers for the staff at John Eastwood Hospice and the Renal Dialysis Unit.”

Ashfield RUFC club captain, Danii Poulter, presented the cheque and hamper on behalf of the club and said: “I am so proud of the community spirit the club has shown for the heroes who are leading the way in tackling COVID-19.

“Get involved or support our fitness challenges by following us on Facebook at @AshfieldRUFC.

“We always welcome new players of any experience from ages 5 and above. So if you want to give rugby a try, get in touch and join us when government guidelines allow.”