A CHILDREN’S charity has received a £3000 boost thanks to the efforts of a team of hardy fundraisers from Trafford Park contractor Russells Construction.

The eight-strong team from the construction company raised the money in sponsorship, which was then topped up by the directors, after completing a 20km Tough Mudder challenge.

The race saw teams from across the country tackling the elements, battling through the mud, and taking on a variety of obstacles including high walls, water jumps, and cargo net crawls.

Dean Moran, one of the organisers, said: “It was a great day, but the challenge certainly lived up to its name; it was very tough and very muddy! It was pretty hard work but teamwork and camaraderie made it a lot of fun. I would definitely do it again and the others have said the same, but not too soon.”

Dean, who is currently working on the £10m Joy Global project in Bolton, was among those who enjoyed a recent tour of the hospital to meet staff and see the facilities which have been improved by fundraisers over the years. He said: “We are very lucky to have RMCH here in Manchester, the hospital is incredible and the charity does amazing work raising money to support the medical staff and facilities. RMCH has helped so many people in our region, including family members of some of our colleagues, and we really just wanted to do or bit to help.”

The donation will go towards the Charity’s Time Saves Lives Helipad Appeal, which is raising vital funds towards building a 24-hour access helipad at the central Manchester hospital site.

Currently, the hospital relies on a secondary landing site in a local park, adding precious minutes to the transfer of an incredibly ill child. An on-site landing pad will help to dramatically reduce patient transfer times by up to two thirds and, in turn, will help to save lives and improve patient recovery.