FROM dawn to dusk they ran, swam, canoed and cycled around North Yorkshire in a trial of stamina and skill.

And the effort proved worthwhile, as these big-hearted York soldiers proved when they were able to hand over a total of £6,000 to three local charities as a result of their efforts in Race The Sun.

The event in May was organised by 2 Signal Regiment, which is based at Imphal Barracks in Fulford, and drew military personnel from all over the country to take part in the 15-stage relay race over 182 miles of North Yorkshire roads, forests, lakes and rivers.

It included a hIll run up Sutton Bank, canoeing on the River Ouse, cycling uphill through Levisham, and swimming across the lake at Castle Howard

The York regiment savoured success on the day, gaining second prizes in the major and minor units' sections, while soldiers and civilian staff from the Army Foundation College at Harrogate took top prize in the major unit section.

The local charities, which received the cash at a ceremony at Imphal Barracks, were St Leonard's Hospice, the York Hospitals NHS Trust (Child Development Centre), and York and North Yorkshire Community Foundation.

The cheques were presented by Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Botterill, the 2 Signal Regiment's Commanding Officer assisted by Major Ade Clewlow, the organiser of Race The Sun.

A further cheque for £1,500 was presented to the Army Benevolent Fund, which helps serving and former soldiers and their families in times of need.

Also present was Ian McKinlay, facilities manager at Nestl, who sponsored the event.

Updated: 10:43 Monday, July 25, 2005