THREE 17-year-old students from Queen Elizabeth’s School in Crediton, George Ripper and James and Michael Lambourne, were training for the Dartmoor Ten Tors 55-mile endurance challenge on May 2 and 3, when Covid-19 lockdown cancelled the event.

Normally 2,000 teenagers walk 35, 45 or 55-miles, climbing 10 tors, during the two day event.

Despite the lockdown, this did not stop the students from attempting a 55-mile walk (89km) around their gardens in full overnight walking kit.

The students tried to make their event as similar to the Ten Tors as possible, starting at seven in the morning on Saturday, May 2 and finishing before five in the afternoon the next day.

The trio have been raising money for Medecins Sans Frontieres / Doctors Without Borders (MSF) which has a coronavirus appeal to help support countries that are struggling most with the virus.

The boys found the challenge really tough going, George completing his challenge and Michael finishing at noon on the Sunday.

Sadly James had to drop out at 27 miles due to injury. He was extremely disappointed not to finish.

Despite this, the trio have raised more than £1,600 for MSF and the funding site is still open if anyone is able to donate.

The boys would really appreciate support.

They have been congratulated on their achievement by Rupert Poole, QE principal.