Coventry police officers Tim Longbottom and Dave Roxburgh had to go the extra mile after completing a marathon and cycle ride to John O'Groats.

(left to right) TIM LONGBOTTOM, DAVE ROXBURGH & BRIAN HOLTON

The two were part of a 24-strong team of police officers and civilian workers who staged a cycle relay to Britain's most northerly point and then ran back all in aid of the Association of Brain Damaged Children and Young Persons which has a base in Coventry.

They were sponsored by Coventry based air conditioning and heating specialists Team National, so had to pull their exercise gear on once more and travel the mile to the company's headquarters to collect their cheque.

Team National managing director Brian Holton said he had decided to back the effort after deciding to put the money the company usually spent on Christmas cards to a charitable cause.

Mr Holton said:

"We had decided not to send out corporate Christmas cards but instead were looking for something to support. We wanted to back something which was local, for a good cause and, since this required a super-human effort, it fitted every requirement.

"To do what Tim's team did was extraordinary and we were delighted to give them our full support - as long as they didn't ask us to take part!"

The team worked in three units on eight-hour shifts and managed to complete the 1206 miles in less than a week.

Detective Constable Longbottom said the effort had raised over £12,500 for the charity.

"We are very grateful to the sponsors who made it all worthwhile. The event took considerable planning and a great deal of effort from everyone involved.

"There were some hairy moments along the way but we all got back in one piece - and fitter than when we started."

The sponsors were Team National, Kenilworth Vehicle Rental, The Maudslay Hotel, Jaguar, Brose, PRP Security, Cable and Wireless, Builders' Supply Stores, Halfords and Varley Hibbs.