A GROUP of twelve friends have cycled, swam and ran from Birkenhead to Holyhead to raise cash for the RNLI and The Open Door Centre.

The team, including volunteer RNLI lifeguard Richard Webster, completed the challenge called the 'Rustman', on Thursday, July 4 and have raised more than £3,000 for their chosen charities.

Their journey began at 5am which saw them cycle from Mother Redcaps beach in Wallasey to Red Rocks in Hoylake before they ran and swam to Talacre lighthouse, reaching Port Dinorwic by bike along the North Wales Cycle route.

They then swam across the Menai Straights and cycled to Rhosneiger before running to Cwmran.

Crowning this ultimate challenge, the pals had to then swim across the Cwmran straits and run cross country along the Anglesey coast path - finishing at Holyhead harbour at 11.15pm.

It took the determined team 18 hours and 15 minutes - even finding time to visit seven RNLI Lifeboat Stations along the way.

Richard told the Globe: "To share this unique experience with such a good group of people was so special and it was amazing to have the support of local people on the way.

"We checked in with RNLI Lifeboat Stations along the way and were in regular contact with the coastguards."

With a fundraising target of £2,000 - the current total sits at more than £3,000.