A GROUP of fitness fanatics managed to lift an incredible one million kg in weights over just eight hours as part of a Sport Relief charity event.

Michael Hart was joined by friends, gym members and other weightlifters for the heavy challenge.

Michael, 28, said: “It was really tough. Some of those who did it said they couldn’t even get out of bed the next day. But we had some fantastic support and the atmosphere was incredible.”

The group taking part in the event comprised of 10 people who stayed throughout the day, and around 20 who each did a couple of hours of lifting.

The group were divided into four teams, each with a 50 kilo bar, which were lifted in turn by team members.

Their reps were counted by those watching and each got added to the grand total.

Thanks to the hard work of all those who took part, the group managed to lift their target of 1million kg in just eight hours – two hours short of their target of 10 hours.

Michael, who lives in Top of The Town, Basingstoke, said: “We did it so much quicker than we had expected – we really smashed it.

“It was hard to estimate as we didn’t know how many people would join us but we had a really good turnout.

“There was also lots of people – friends and family – who came along to support us.”

So far, Michael, who works at Southern Electric and Basingstoke Sports Centre, has raised more than £600 through the challenge, and donations are still coming in.

He said: “This is the first time I have organised this event, but I would definitely do it again and hope to hold it for charity next year, but with a higher fundraising target.” To make a donation visit mysportrelief.com/sponsor/1milkglift.