An incredible three days of fundraising saw thousands of pounds raised in support of a Cumbrian man imprisoned in India.

Money is being raised in the UK to support John Armstrong, from Wigton, and five other Britons who are currently serving a five-year prison sentence.

Their families and friends back home are fundraising to pay for the legal fees as the men continue to protest their innocence.

Andrew Corcoran, a former paratrooper and close friend of John, 28, set off on a 247-mile cycle from Sunderland to Maryport, via John's home town of Wigton, and then through Cumbria and back to his home of Liverpool.

John's sister Joanne Thomlinson, from Blennerhasset, and Yvonne MacHugh - fiancee of imprisoned Brit Billy Irving - took to their bikes on Friday to join Andrew on the 11-mile Carlisle to Wigton leg.

The trio battled wind and rain to complete the section - rounding the evening off with steaks and baths.

The following day, Paul Mannion, also a former paratrooper and close friend of John, performed his own endurance challenge in Coventry.

Paul completed 1,000 pull ups in under three hours - literally left bleeding and bruised at the end of it.

He said afterwards: "It was hard to grip at the end with blood making it slippery."

The final day's fundraiser saw Lisa and Paul Dunn, siblings of imprisoned Nick Dunn, take on the Great North Run.

Overall the weekend of fundraising challenges has brought in more than £6,000, with money still coming in.

Yvonne said: "Lisa made it, Paul made it and together along with Paul Mannion, Paul Dunn and everyone else who cycled, ran, supported and donated alongside them over £6000 was raised this weekend. Outstanding.

"Thanks to everyone involved and for everyone's support. Not only will this help to fund the growing legal costs but will give the men a hugely important morale boost.

"I am so proud of you all completing your challenges this weekend."

Joanne commented: "As my mam and dad have commented on the fundraising page, this is true friendship when friendship is needed."