ABINGDON members have been on the up despite their club being closed for more than two months.

While it is unclear when gymnastics can restart, they decided to take on a challenge during the half term break to raise money for NHS charities.

Performance manager Nikki Woodward proposed a physical challenge for 63 hours, the same number of days the club has been closed.

With space and equipment limited, they settled on stair climbing – walking up and down for 20, 40 or 60 minute slots during the week.

More than 150 people took part in the challenge, from gymnasts aged four through to the elite squads and their families.

Woodward said: “The club is so proud of all the members for getting behind our fundraiser and of course for completing what was a tough mission, especially in the heat we have had.”

The club held a virtual celebration disco on Saturday, which included an auction that boosted the pot to more than £1,800.

The fundraising page is still open, to donate search ‘Just Giving Nikki Woodward’.