Students embark on 100 mile coastal path run

Students at Bicton College have embarked on a gruelling 100 mile coastal path endurance challenge to raise funds for charity

A group of students have set off on a gruelling endurance challenge which will see them running 100 miles (161km) along a coastal path over three days.

The students from the Military and Protective Services (MaPS) Academy at Bicton College have embarked on the Baton of Bicton challenge.

They are travelling along the coastal path from Studland in Dorset back to Bicton College in East Budleigh.

The group are doing the challenge to raise money for the Royal Marines Charity and the RNLI.

The team from Bicton College have been in training for the gruelling Baton of Bicton challenge

Eight students and about six members of staff are doing the challenge, which is being supported by the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Marines, along with Devon and Cornwall Police and the RNLI.

A Bicton College spokesperson said: "The students will push their physical and mental limits to complete at least 40 miles over each of the first two days, finishing with 20 miles on the final day."

MaPS student, Alice Cooper, said the task was “exciting but equally challenging.”

“We are all a little bit nervous but unbelievably motivated and ready to go," she added.

"This project has brought the academy together and we have developed so many new skills."

'Incredibly proud'

Student, Beano, who planned to join the Army, told BBC Radio Devon that while the challenge would be tough he and his fellow participants had to "keep it in our head that we can actually do it".

Curriculum area manager, Scott Lawson, said they were "incredibly proud" of the students' efforts.

He added: “Our industry has asked for ‘mentally and physically resilient recruits’ and this challenge is packed full of experiences to boost these qualities."

Senior study programme manager, Dougie Wright, said: “There is no doubt this is going to be challenging in every aspect. But what an amazing experience and journey these learners are on.

"This challenge will give them a memory for life and something to be so incredibly proud of and talk about moving into their future careers."

The challenge ends on Thursday.