A LOCAL group of dads have shown their appreciation to all key workers across the country with a gruelling home-workout challenge.

Members from Fit Ayrshire Dads last week completed their ‘Full House’ push-up challenge in dedication to all key workers fronting the battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

Organised by group founder Kev Brown, from Kilwinning, members taking part in the task had to do 25 push-ups each day for seven days.

Accompanying the tough challenge, Kev asked that people record a short video with a short message of thanks to frontline workers who are more exposed to Covid-19.

Kev, 41, said: “Last week we had the ‘run your age in miles’ challenge which involved running, cycling or walking.

“We had a good uptake with a lot of the guys doing really well.

“I had something similar planned but some people are certainly feeling anxious about going out and about so I thought I’d come up with something different.

“It’s called the ‘Full House’ challenge because you’re going to give seven days effort from your home.

“This one is dedicated to all key workers out there in hospitals, care homes and emergency services doing their best right now to try and protect people.

“The challenge requires 25 push-ups per day for a full week.

“Post a video each day with a short message for our key workers and encouragement for the other Fit Ayrshire Dads giving it a go.

“A small moment of struggle doing push-ups is nothing in comparison to what some key workers are going through on a day-to-day basis.

“Don’t worry how many attempts it takes – as long as you get them done.

“If you need to take a break, that’s fine. Or if you need to use your knees, that’s fine. It’s just important to get them done.

“I’m challenging you to get uncomfortable and get it done.

“This is a chance to do something a bit different from running and cycling and show the key workers we have in the group that we care.”

Kev has set his team a new challenge for the coming week too.

They are helping foodbanks throughout Ayrshire to help cope with the extra demands during the coronavirus crisis.

  *************

Scotland is in lockdown. Shops are closing and newspaper sales are falling fast. We’re not exaggerating when we say that the future of the Irvine Times, and the vital local news service we’ve provided since 1873, is under threat.

Please consider supporting the Irvine Times in whatever way you can – by paying just 90p for a copy of the paper, when you’re shopping for essential supplies for yourself and others, or by subscribing to our e-edition here.

Thanks – and stay safe.