A team of workmates who got wet and muddy to raise more than £2,000 for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) have been crowned top fundraising team by the charity.

Paul Collier, who also raised more than £900 by himself in 2012, was named as top individual fundraiser. He recruited a team of Aviva colleagues to join him at the Newcastle Stampede held at the city’s racecourse in October.

Paul began supporting the charity after a friend and colleague died from a heart attack seven years ago.

Carl Jones, BHF community fundraising manager said: “We’re incredibly proud of the amazing fundraising efforts of people like Paul and his Aviva Avengers who got wet and muddy for a very good cause.

“Heart failure affects more than 750,000 people in the UK but, with the support of people like them, we’re making progress in the fight to find a cure.”

To sign up for this year’s Newcastle Stampede charity challenge on October 19, or for a fundraising pack, visit bhf.org.uk

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