Prisoners tackle mammoth weight

A group of prisoners and guards from Glenochil jail in Clackmannanshire is aiming to lift the equivalent of 10 blue whales for charity.

Twenty prisoners and five guards are attempting to lift an unprecedented 1.5 million kilograms over six hours.

Each member of the group will complete the challenge by lifting a 50kg weight, 1,200 times.

All the money raised from the event will go to fund Macmillan Cancer Support.

Alex Potter, physical activity instructor in Glenochil, said the team had been preparing for the challenge for months.

'Emotional support'

He added: "A lot of them know someone who has cancer, and they were really keen to help raise money for Macmillan.

"It's going to be a difficult challenge - and although we're aiming to lift 1.5 million kg, the guys taking part have said they want to try and hit the two million mark if they can.

"We are very happy for the prisoners to take part in a fundraising event like this.

"It means they are helping a great charity, and it gives them a sense of achievement and self worth."

Macmillan fundraising manager Susan Selkirk added: "All of the money they raise will help us fund the services we offer around Forth Valley, including our specialist doctors and nurses and a psychologist who offers emotional support to people with cancer."

RELATED INTERNET LINKS
Macmillan Cancer Support
Scottish Prison Service
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