The cold early hours of the morning were the worst part of a gruelling 40 hour tennis marathon at the weekend.

Thousands of pounds was raised for Help for Heroes by Mike Mitchell, who played non-stop for almost two days at Westside Lawn Tennis Club in Woodhayes Road, Wimbledon.

Mr Mitchell played against 57 people over the course of the charity event from Friday, May 2 at 5am to Saturday at 9pm.

He said his supporters cheered him on, keeping his spirits up and got him through the toughest times with support, food and coffee.

So far he has raised £3,500.

He said: "The hardest part was 5am to 9am on Saturday morning.

"It was absolute hell - it was a very cold night and by the time the 24 hour mark came I was really struggling.

"I was ready to quit until Tom arrived, a physiotherapist arranged by Pure Sports Medicine.

"He completely turned it around for me. I totally owe the fact that I managed to finish to him, and I cannot thank him enough."

To sponsor Mr Mitchell, visit the website.


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