Staff and members of CrossFit Swindon have raised £555 for the Baby Bank Network as part of a worldwide CrossFit competition.

The gym takes part in the CrossFit Open every year and consists of five challenging workouts every week for five weeks. This international competition is the first qualification stage in The CrossFit Games to find the fittest athletes in the world.

Luke Knapp, owner of CrossFit Swindon said: “The Open is a huge community event for us

"This year we wanted to go even further and give back to the wider community.”

“We wanted to encourage as many people as possible to take part and to get involved in the whole process," said Harry Palmer, owner of CrossFit Swindon.

70 people took part in the challenge, split into three teams which each nominated a charity. At the end of the five weeks, the charity of the winning team received the money.

The Baby Bank Network distributes pre-loved baby items to families that cannot afford to buy them. They said:“It is wonderful that CrossFit Swindon chose Baby Bank Network Bristol to benefit from their competition. We are very grateful for the money they have raised which will enable us to help even more families in need.

Will Shaw who took part in The Open, suggested the charity. He said: “Over 25% of children in Bristol and the surrounding areas are living in poverty. As a parent, I feel it is important that charity should develop and grow in your community."