A TEAM of hardy local lads took on a gruelling challenge to raise money for a children’s hospice.

Seven men braved ice baths and electric fences to compete in the Tough Mudder challenge, described as “Probably the toughest event on the planet”.

The 12-mile obstacle course saw the team clamber over 12ft walls and do battle with electric and razor wire fences, monkey bars, mud and frozen lakes.

To prepare for the course, which is designed to test both mental and physical stamina, the men had to endure weeks of team runs, fitness sessions and hill sprints at the hands of personal trainer Matt Jordinson.

Team-member Ste Smith, from Middlesbrough, said: “Overall, it was a lot harder than I expected and I needed to do more training than I did.”

The challenge was part of a series of events undertaken by Mr Jordinson and his team to raise funds for the Butterwick House Children’s Hospice in Stockton. Earlier this year, they took on the Redcar Half Marathon, the Newcastle Stampede and the Total Warrior challenge.

The Tough Mudder event raised more than £800 for the hospice.

Laura-Jane Wedgwood, fundraiser at Butterwick House, said: “Matt Jordinson and his team really went the extra mile with this one, literally. Their determination and team work is truly impressive and we can not thank them enough for their continued support.”