Two Exmouth RNLI volunteers on put their best hooves forward for this year's Virtual Reindeer Run on Saturday, December 12.

Boat crew volunteer Dougie Wright and volunteer tour guide and chair of the Exmouth RNLI's fundraising committee Des White completed a full marathon and 10K run respectively.

The annual RNLI fundraiser had gone virtual this year because of Covid-19 restrictions, so hundreds of runners across the country chose their own routes and took part individually.

Dougie ran a gruelling 26.2 mile course from Exmouth Lifeboat Station, along the River Exe cycle path, down the western side of the river and back again, completing the distance in three hours and 49 minutes.

He said: "It was a tough challenge, I had little time to prepare but it was certainly worth the pain, raising some much needed money for the charity.

"I'm grateful for the help and encouragement of RNLI colleague, Rory Carrig, who cycled the entire route with me and kept me energised and hydrated - I couldn't have done it without him. I'd also like to give a huge thankyou to those who have donated, I am really grateful."

The pair are star RNLI fundraisers

Des completed his 10km run along Exmouth seafront, but last year he ran the 2019 London Marathon in aid of Exmouth RNLI and raised more than £500.

He said: "I was pleased to take part in this year's virtual event and especially grateful for my sponsors. As Team Exmouth myself and Dougie have raised £940.00 so far and we are currently 4th on the RNLI National Reindeer Leaderboard and just short of 3rd place. Thanks to all who donated so generously."

Anyone who would like to donate to Dougie or Des's fundraising – or both – can do so by visiting Dougie's fundraising page