An astronomical charity challenge covering the distance from the moon to planet earth needs support from swimmers, runners and cyclists.

St Bees Triers launched ‘The Longest Journey Home’ in March with 24 hours of exercise to raise money for Comic Relief and the Calderwood House homeless hostel in Egremont.

The gruelling test requires participants to cover the 250,000 miles from the moon to earth, and make a charitable donation along the way.

Currently, the total sits at nearly 15,000 miles and the triers are appealing for more help to move closer to home.

Chris Robson, from St Bees Triers, said: “On March 17 and 18, you would have noticed a large amount of activity around the beach area as the St Bees Triers started their 250,000 mile journey back from the moon.

“Raising money for Comic Relief and Calderwood House, this was the kick-start to a challenge which is likely to take many months to complete. Walking, running and cycling on that day it was hoped to cover 5,000 miles.

“In practice with two hours to go to the noon deadline, the target looked unattainable, but the arrival of several cyclists over the last half-hour meant that the 5,000 figure was reached with about eight minutes to spare. But the challenge goes on!

“As the word spreads others are joining in to add their miles in places all over the UK and abroad.”

Over 100 teams have so far contributed to the challenge and contributions can be as simple as dog-walking or walking along the beach.

During the event’s launch, participants could take part in a half-mile walk along the seafront, two three-mile routes towards Rottington or Nethertown, or an eight-mile cycle route - all starting from St Bees’ Adams Ground.

To track St Bees Triers’ progress or to join in the challenge, visit www.longestjour neyhome.org

For more information email charity@triers.uk or visit ‘St Bees Triers Charity Challenges’ on Facebook.