Newspaper staff battled mud, sweat and tears for a gruelling challenge which raised hundreds of pounds for a children’s hospice.

Newsquest North London editor Victoria Birch, commercial director Sarah Sanderson and advertising salesman Adam Thorpe took on the might of Tough Mudder – a five mile endurance event which tests mental and physical strength.

The trio, who took part in the challenge last weekend, raised £800 for the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice.

Victoria said: “Despite the intense heat, the bruises and battle scars, we actually found ourselves enjoying it.

“We want to say a huge thank you to our readers, contacts, colleagues, friends and family for their donations. And for putting up with our whinges ahead of the event.”

The money will help fund Noah’s Ark Children’s Groups, based in Barnet, for seriously unwell children, sibling support programmes, family days, specialist carers or paediatric palliative care nurses.

It could also help fund drama and movement therapy sessions or music therapy sessions for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.

‘The Ark’ is the first children’s hospice in north and central London serving the boroughs of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Islington, Haringey and Hertsmere.

The Tough Mudder event was held in Gaddesden Estate, Hemel Hempstead.