Football players dread the hard yards of pre-season running but one of the city's junior teams has defied the heat to achieve a remarkable feat.

Costessey Dragons Under-11s took on an unusual training session on Tuesday night (July 11) as they tackled the daunting 26.2-mile marathon distance collectively.

The Dragons train at Costessey Sports Club, in Longwater Lane, and took on the challenge in nearby woodland, with 11 players testing their endurance.

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However, with a few injury issues, some of the squad had to take on longer runs to help out their teammates - and clocked a total distance of 28.9 miles.

The 10 and 11-year-olds, and their coaches, ran to raise money for local charity Nelson’s Journey, which supports bereaved youngsters.

Jamie Miller, 34, is the football team’s manager and said that while it is a run the team would normally do once or twice a year to prepare for the season, this year they wanted to support a local charity.

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He described the conditions as “difficult” and “humid” with the roots and slippery ground in the woods proving to be a disadvantage.

Nonetheless, Jamie said “everyone rallied” and by the end, all of the players were “dripping with sweat” and “exhausted” but knowing it was for a good cause maintained their determination and kept spirits high.

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Norwich Evening News: Costessey Dragons U11s took on the marathon distance as a team to raise funds for Nelson's Journey Costessey Dragons U11s took on the marathon distance as a team to raise funds for Nelson's Journey (Image: Brendon Lansdowne)

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One of the players' parents, Brendon Lansdowne, 47, said: “The atmosphere was brilliant. The boys thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Nelson’s Journey is a charity Brendon cares deeply about, as it has very few staff members and many people requiring their services, so he is grateful for Jamie and the team coming together to support its important work.

Their efforts have already raised over £600, exceeding their original target, but they are hoping to surpass £1,000 by the end of the month.

You can donate to their cause by searching for 'Costessey Dragons U11s Marathon' at justgiving.com.