TWO friends have raised more than £1,000 for charity by each completing a ‘mental health marathon’.

Ellie Fletcher, from Dumbarton, and her pal Louise Davis ran a combined total of 100km - equivalent to almost two-and-a-half marathons - during March in aid of the Mental Health Foundation.

The pair, both 21, initially set a fund-raising target in the hundreds - but they are “over the moon” at the four-figure sum collected since completing their challenge.

Writing on a JustGiving page, Louise said: “From feeling bored in the house and a bit blue, myself and Ellie decided that between us we would collectively run 100km for the month of March in support of the Pals finish mental health marathons Mental Health Foundation.

“During the recent events everyone has struggled to stay positive throughout these hard times, so while challenging ourselves physically we’re raising awareness for a charity that we’re both very passionate about.”

Louise’s mum, Lynne, said: “The girls have a fantastic network of friends but I think it’s been hard for all ages this past year.

“Ellie’s mum, Donna, and myself are extremely proud of them both.

"Mental health is extremely important and the girls wanted to remind everyone that it’s OK not to be OK.”