MUSCLEMEN at a Salisbury gym put their strength to the test for charity.

Over four hours, 25 of Salisbury's strongest squatted, pressed and deadlifted about 36 tonnes each.

Steve Henstridge organised the 1,000-tonne Monster Lift challenge at Salisbury Weight and Powerlifting Club, in New Zealand Avenue, to raise money for Lucy's Days Out.

They hit their target half an hour ahead of schedule and managed to add an extra 100 tonnes to their goal.

The oldest participant was57 and the youngest was four-year-old Harley Toogood, who lifted 82kg. The top lifter of the day was Adam Hindle who lifted a whopping 68 tonnes.

Mr Henstridge said: “Everyone was absolutely shattered, but that's what the challenge was about. We didn't want something that was going to be easy. They all said to me how much they enjoyed the day and lots of people came up to watch and support us. It was a great day with a great atmosphere.”

Sponsorship is still being collected but Mr Henstridge hopes the day will raise between £4,000 and £5,000.