Inspiring men raise thousands for Peace and Mind by carrying sandbags

James Rooney, 28, and Mike Douglass, 40, work at Labdesk in Birchwood Park, which is where they met Esther Ghey, who is based in the same building.

When the James, who lives in Widnes, and Mike, who lives in Birchwood, heard about Peace and Mind UK, they decided they wanted to help raise money and support the cause.

Peace and Mind UK was created by Esther in memory of her daughter, Brianna, after she was brutally murdered in February 2023 in Culcheth.

Following her daughter’s death, Esther was compelled to bring mindfulness training to schools across Warrington and the UK and spread a message of peace.

To help with this, James and Mike set themselves the challenge of carrying 30-kilogram weights over 30 kilometres and raise £2,000.

James and Mike carried the 30kg weights for nearly 50 kilometres (Image: Supplied)

“When we heard about Esther’s story and mission with Peace and Mind UK, we wanted to help,” said Mike.

“We had already been talking about a challenge involving a sandbag carry, but once we aligned to support Peace and Mind, the details fell into place.”

On Friday, despite being faced with Storm Lillian, the pair set off on their challenge – having already reached their fundraising target.

"We are both really proud to be supporting Esther and Peace and Mind UK,” said James.

“While the challenge is a tough one, it is insignificant in comparison to the mission Peace and Mind is taking on.

“To know that we can help in a small way means a lot to us."

The pair managed to raise more than £2,400 (Image: Supplied)

After a staggering 12 hours and 13 minutes, James and Mike not only completed the 30 kilometres, but exceeded it, managing nearly 50 kilometres in total.

Now, the duo have managed to raise an incredible £2,460 for Peace in Mind, and their donations are still open.

"I am so grateful to Mike and James from Labdesk for taking on such a challenge to raise money for Peace and Mind UK,” said Esther.

“The funds raised will go towards our first Peace Festival, which will be a subsidised community event where families can come along for a day of fun and relaxation.

“Without the help of people like James and Mike, along with all those who have donated, this event would not be possible.”