PRISON officers and prisoners from the Resettlement Unit at HMP Dartmoor went 'on the run' last week for a local charity.

The aim of the day was to run and row as many miles as possible in a day, using treadmills and rowing machines in the unit — all in aid of Children's Hospice South West's Precious Lives Appeal.

Officer Ivan Judd said: 'There were about 20 taking part altogether, all running and rowing throughout the day.

'We were hoping to get in excess of 200 miles from the prison, but when all the mileage was totted up, they managed to get as far away as the equivalent distance to Glasgow, and in doing so managed to raise almost £700 for the charity.'

Ivan, who organised the event, said he was pleased with the enthusiasm that the prisoners gave to the event.

'All those taking part felt very pleased and proud with the effort that they put in. We hope to organise similar events on a regular basis,' added Ivan.

The event was also supported by Jennie Blackhall and her fundraising dog Mr Foley, who has raised in excess of £70,000 so far this year for the 'Precious Lives' charity.

Children's Hospice South West help and support children and their families who are living with life limiting conditions. It is the only organisation in the south west to provide vital hospice care to these families at Little Bridge House in North Devon, Charlton Farm in North Somerset and Little Harbour in Cornwall, currently under construction and ready for 2011.

For more information visit http://www.chsw.org.uk">www.chsw.org.uk