The St Bees community has launched an astronomical charity challenge.

'The Longest Journey Home' was launched at noon on Friday and is inviting people to run, cycle or swim a section of the 250,000 miles from the moon to planet earth – and make a charitable donation along the way.

The event, organised by running group St Bees Triers, will see proceeds split between Comic Relief and the Calderwood House homeless hostel in Egremont.

The group hopes to have the first 5,000 miles banked from those taking part in the 24-hour launch event, which runs until noon on Saturday.

From a 'mission control' base, in the village's Adams Ground, participants can choose between a half-mile walk along the seafront, two three-mile routes towards Rottington or Nethertown, or an eight-mile cycle route. Swimmers can also do their bit in the village pool.

Following the launch weekend, the campaign is being rolled out locally – and even internationally – with participants invited to go online and log their miles and make a donation. A £5,000 fundraising total has been set, and it is hoped that the 250,000 miles can completed within a year.

Jon Raymond, one of the organisers, said: "It's about raising money for and awareness of two good causes, and we'd encourage everyone to take part.

"When you're out on a long run, you get to a point when you turn round for home – and you look forward to that; getting one stage closer with every step.

"But not everyone has a home to go to, and it's having that small insight into what it's like to be homeless that should push people on."

Pupils from St Bees Village School combined to contribute over 450 miles to the effort, having attended a special assembly on homelessness earlier in the day.

Year 6 teacher Sheila Hansen said: "It's important that the children know about issues, and how their lives are different from others; that they are privileged to have a nice home, good parents and hot meals, while others are not so fortunate."

Take part by visiting the Adams Ground before noon on Saturday, or visit www.longestjourneyhome.org.