A QUARTET of croquet players raised the ancient art to a new level with a round-the-clock marathon.

The awesome foursome, from the Pendle and Craven club, collected more than £650 for Sport Relief with their epic feat at Earby.

Liz Wilson, North West federation chairman and Roger Schofield, club chairman, were leading Paul Rigge, regional secretary, and Pendle and Craven’s Garry Wilson by 260 to 204 when stalwart Ken Tennant rang the bell to end proceedings after 24 hours.

Garry, from Kelbrook, who had the original idea, said: “Money is still coming in and the club has made lots of new friends in the town.

“I hope they will drop in again and try this intriguing sport. We can provide equipment and coaching.”

Playing on a floodlit pitch provided by Skipton SHC Ltd, temperatures plummeted as night fell and the players also had to contend with heavy showers and hail. But the morning brought some much-needed sunshine.

Club officials are now investigating whether their points tally over the 24 hours exceeds the world record, which is thought to be held by Crake Croquet Club.