Plane pullers help charity push towards £500k

Hundreds of people joined forces to pull a Boeing 737 and help a long-running charity challenge move closer to raising half a million pounds.

The Dorset Plane Pull returned to Bournemouth Airport earlier, with dozens of teams taking on the task of hauling the 35-tonne aircraft over 50m (164ft).

The annual event, now in its 17th year, brings charities, businesses and community groups together for a day of fundraising and friendly competition.

Organiser Richard Griffin said: "We all come together once a year on a bank holiday Monday to do this mad thing and pull an aeroplane."

He said he hoped this year's event would help the fundraiser reach the £500,000 mark after raising £400,000 since it began in 2009.

A total of 35 teams took part in this year's challenge, with team Winging it for Kirsty fundraising for Kirsty Louse Streek Foundation recording the fastest pull time of 30.31 seconds.

The fastest pull recorded in the event's history was 25.70 seconds.

Griffin said the attraction was partly down to the unusual nature of the challenge.

"Given the nature that it's a big shiny aeroplane and it's something a little bit quirky, I think that's why people want to take up the challenge," he said.

"I'm immensely proud of all the people that have taken part today. It's a huge team effort from the charities, the participants and the spectators."

He said the event was not only about raising money but also helping charities become better known in the local area.

Among those taking part was Denise McManus, who was raising money for Dorset Cancer Care Foundation.

"It's harder than what you think... Once you get it going the momentum is there," she said.

"I feel quite exhausted now, but I feel good. I feel good that we've achieved it."

Partners Jack and Ella, who were taking part in support of Dorset Mind, also said the challenge proved tougher than expected.

Ella said: "That was really good fun though. It was over quicker than I thought."

Jack added: "Harder than we thought. My legs are a bit weak. I thought it would be quite easy, but I'm out of breath."

Trophies were also awarded for categories including best fancy dress and best team name.