The Arkengarthdale hub Zumba group smashed their 13-hour, all-night Zumbathon and in doing so raised more than £4,700 for Pinktober, Cancer Research UK’s month-long fundraiser for breast cancer.

There were 17 woman taking part with 12 of them dancing the whole night through.

The event took place in the community hub at St Mary’s Church in Arkengarthdale and the group were supported by friends and family who called in to cheer them on.

They were also treated to refreshments during the event to keep their energy levels high, culminating with pink Prosecco and bacon or egg sandwiches to celebrate when the 13-hour countdown concluded.

The 13-hour challenge was in memory of Helen Ashton who lost her life to cancer aged just 13.

June, Helen’s mum, has taken the lead as a volunteer for Pinktober on behalf of Cancer Research UK and has seen the second event grow substantially this year with the whole community becoming involved.

She called in to the Zumbathon at the start intending to stay for a couple of hours but ended up spending the entire 13 hours with the group.

June said: “Once I started dancing, I knew I couldn’t leave these fabulous ladies.

“Their efforts were incredible and in all my years of fundraising this was up there with one of the best events I have had the privilege to be involved in with such lovely women.

“I am hugely appreciative for everything they have done and to everyone who has supported this crazy idea! If anyone would like to make a donation in recognition of their fantastic achievement then please do so at https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/arkengarthdale-zumbathon.

“There has been a full programme of events this October and they haven’t finished yet – together the Dales are making a difference.”

Jill Lundberg, a member of the group added: “The camaraderie throughout the 13 hours was exceptional.

“We motivated and spurred each other on and, believe me, at 3am that takes some doing!

“Knowing that so many had donated so much before we had even started was a massive morale booster and helped to keep our spirits high.

“Having people call in with words of encouragement and bringing us home-made refreshments further highlighted the huge sense of community we are honoured to have in Arkengarthdale.”