Nine island businesses battled it out to see who could cycle the most miles in the name of charity.

Teams of 18 people completed the hour-long challenge which raised £600 for Lisa Lowe Centre to support individuals who struggle mentally with cancer.

The pedal power event was organised by cafe and fitness club Cycle 360 in the Isle of Man Business Park, Douglas.

It aimed to promote the importance of wellbeing and good mental health by getting people out of the office and taking part in a physical activity together.

Sacha Quine, co-director at Cycle 360 and fitness club manager, said: ’At Cycle 360, the culture within our fitness club is focused on promoting both physical and mental health.

’We like to call it "self-care", which is why we decided to launch this mental fitness initiative to coincide with World Wellbeing Week.

’With physical activity being one of the most accessible means to improving mental health, it seemed a natural place to start.

’We were blown away by the involvement with some companies even entering more than one team.

’Each team really gave it their all and it was great to see the reaction to what is hopefully the first of many events designed to encourage increased physical activity in the workplace, all in the name of local charity.’

Winning the wattbike challenge was Barclays. Together they cycled 384 miles in 60 minutes - an average of 21.3 miles per person. The team also had the fastest woman, Christa McKay, who completed 23.31 miles on the bike averaging 215 watts in the hour.

Dandara were the runners- up with 363.56 miles covered - an average of 20.2 miles per person. Manx Telecom was third, completing 355.14 miles with Kevin Edwards being the fastest man overall, completing 25.69 miles and averaging 275 watts in the hour.

A member of the Barclays team said: ’It’s funny because I had a really bad week last week, but was buzzing after that hour of exercise. It goes to show that we really do need to look at keeping fit to manage our mental wellness!’

Jess Mackie from The Lisa Lowe Centre said: ’The effort of everyone involved means so much for the charity and a sincere thank you to the companies, Sacha and the rest of the team at Cycle 360 for hosting and motivating each team throughout the challenge.’

For more information on Lisa Lowe Centre, contact 679544, or email [email protected]