THE often taken-for-granted work of hospital porters who average around 27,000 steps or about 12 miles each day has inspired a fundraising challenge at Hampshire Hospitals.

The porters' physically demanding work, ensuring patients and equipment are where they need to be, serves a crucial function in the hospital system.

From September 1, Hampshire Hospitals Charity is running the 'Steptember' challenge.

This initiative is open to the public to mimic a day, week, or month's worth of steps taken by a hospital porter.

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Participants can choose their mode of movement, whether it be walking, running, swimming, cycling or something more creative, and then notify the charity when they've completed their self-set target.

The challenge is intended to raise funds that will enhance the experience for patients, visitors, and staff at Hampshire Hospitals.

Fundraisers may seek sponsorship per step, per mile, or a single lump sum for completing the challenge.

Aside from gathering pledges, the initiative also aims to shed light on the endeavours of hospital porters whose job consists of a form of everyday marathon.

The charity encourages everyone willing to step into the porters' shoes for a day or more to join in.

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Sabrina Marsden, fundraising manager at Hampshire Hospitals Charity, said: "Our porters do a fantastic job and we wanted to highlight the contribution they make to our patients and colleagues with this challenge. It’s a tough one, but we think the people of Hampshire can do it – they just have to decide how!

"This month-long challenge is inclusive and open to everyone making it suitable for those in a wheelchair or with low mobility. To take part, simply choose the distance that suits you best, complete it however you want throughout September and then let us know how you get on."

To find out more, and to sign up, go to hampshirehospitalscharity.org.