Runners cross seven marathons finish line at pier

Chris Bryer-Ash (second from left) was reunited with the team in Bournemouth

A group of runners who embarked on seven marathons in seven days around Dorset have crossed the finish line in Bournemouth.

Childhood friends Chris Helberg and Chris Bryer-Ash started the challenge on Monday, raising money for Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF).

But half way through the week, Mr Bryer-Ash developed a suspected viral infection and spent a night in hospital.

His father, Rich Bryer-Ash, 59, has been running in his son's place, supported by other family members and DCCF chairman Chris Thomas.

Rich Bryer-Ash ran with Chris Helberg after his son was taken ill

Chris Bryer-Ash's 94-year-old grandmother also put in a shift, walking the final leg of Friday's marathon.

He also thanked his sister, mother, step-mum and aunt for clocking up the miles on his behalf.

The friends were reunited at the finish line at Bournemouth Pier on Sunday afternoon.

Mr Helberg said: "The messages I've had this week have been unbelievable. The fundraising has gone well above my expectations.

"It's been absolutely mind-blowing."

The runners have already raised more than £80,000 for DCCF, which supports cancer patients and their families.

Mr Bryer-Ash said: "We were hoping to raise £10,000. We've raised a huge amount of money."

Ahead of the challenge on Monday, Mr Helberg explained that DCCF helped cancer patients avoid financial hardship.

He said: "When you are going through cancer, you shouldn't be worrying about how you pay your mortgage or get to your hospital appointment.

"They take all these worries away from you."

Mr Bryer-Ash's 94-year-old grandmother walked the final leg of Friday's marathon