A soldier and his friends have raised more than £6000 by running a cricket marathon in their back gardens to raise money for the NHS.

Rob Cross, 25, from Wimbledon, took part in a marathon 'virtually' alongside his fellow soldiers, Charlie Newman, 25, and Rob Treasure, 24.

The three soldiers ran a marathon, made up of 2,387 lengths between two sets of cricket stumps in their gardens.

The three friends, who met at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, say they were inspired by the fundraising efforts of 99-year-old Captain Tom Moore.

Wimbledon Times: Charlie Newman, Rob Cross and Rob Treasure Charlie Newman, Rob Cross and Rob Treasure

Since the marathon, the three soldiers have inspired cricket player, Ben Stokes, who ran his first half marathon on May 4.

Speaking to Wimbledon Times, the three soldiers said: "We are absolutely delighted and thoroughly humbled by the response since Ben Stokes has come on board.

"What started as a modest fundraiser has now raised some significant funds for two fantastic causes and we are immensely grateful for everyone's support."

Money raised will be split between charities, 'NHS Charities Together', and 'Chance to Shine' to help spread the power of cricket throughout schools and communities.

Donations reached £6,287.31 at the time of publishing.

To donate, visit at https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=HitandRun&pageUrl=2