A NORTH-EAST legal team proved they were no stick-in-the-muds when they raised £1,035 for charity by taking on one of the country’s toughest assault courses.

Partners, solicitors and support personnel at Hewitts Solicitors took part in the No Ego Mud Challenge, held at Lambton Castle, in Chester le Street, earlier this year.

The gruelling 5-mile challenge, based on a true Army assault course, is designed to test strength, stamina and determination to the limit.

As well as the difficult forest trails, the team, led by partner Darren Brown and made up of staff from the firm’s offices in Darlington, Bishop Auckland, Newton Aycliffe and Stockton, had to overcome a series of obstacles, including a tunnel of mud, freezing cold lakes and fast flowing rivers.

Mr Brown said: “Team Hewitts have undertaken some difficult fundraisers over the years but the No Ego Mud Challenge was probably the toughest. Every one of us finished the course exhausted and covered in mud from head to toe.”

But the mud-slinging was all in a good cause – every penny raised by the fearless fundraisers went to Heel and Toe in Pelton, Chester le Street.

The charity was set up in 2008 to provide therapy for youngsters with cerebral palsy and other disabilities via a state-of-the-art therapy centre.

Fundraising officer Natalie Harker said: “We would like to thank Team Hewitts for putting themselves through the No Ego Mud Challenge to help our children. Their sacrifice is much appreciated.”