A DETERMINED campaigner has completed 10 gruelling challenges to raise £7,000 for charity.

Grace Purnell, 26, pushed through activities such as a triathlon, 100-mile bike ride, marathon and Tough Mudder course as part of her Step Into My Shoes 2017 fundraising project, smashing her £5,000 target.

She will split the funds between Swindon Interactive Arts Service which supports adults with learning difficulties, and Carers Leeds, a charity helping thousands of unpaid carers in the city where she works.

“This year has been a fantastic achievement,” said Grace.

“I’ve reached above and beyond my expectations and raising above my target has been unimaginable.

“The money will help reach isolated carers who need vital support in managing their own mental health and it will also keep SwIAS running for another three years.”

SwIAS was set up to help keep adults with learning difficulties stimulated and holds a weekly interactive arts, crafts, music and drama session for 15 to 28-year-olds at St Andrew’s Church in Moredon.

Grace’s determination inspired the group to hold a sponsored two-mile walk from the church to Manor Garden Centre to support her fundraising.

Even members in wheelchairs took part in the short hike, which raised £450.

SwIAS supervisor Jo Fox said: “The group have enjoyed hearing of Grace’s latest activities and have cheered her on for each marathon, swim, Tough Mudder and bike ride she has undertaken.

“She really is an inspirational and energetic young lady.

“Her drive and motivation has encouraged the group to take part in more energetic activities themselves.”

Carers Leeds offers confidential information, advice and support to the 72,000 carers across the city.

There are around seven million unpaid carers are working in the UK with 2.1 million working more than 20 hours every week, according to the 2011 National Census Carers Trust.

Visit http://www.swias.org.uk/ for more information about SwIAS’s work.