A MAJOR push locally for a veterans’ mental health charity helped raise a record-breaking £230,000 in three months.

This is the largest amount that Combat Stress has ever raised through a social media campaign.

A team from the charity’s centre at Hollybush House, which is just off the A713 Dalmellington-Ayr road, took part in #22PushupChallenge.

It was organised to take place on World Mental Health Day, when the group took on the challenge of breaking through the pain barrier to successfully do 22 push-ups.

The concept originated in the US to raise awareness of veterans’ mental health and has gone global since the start of 2016 which led to the East Ayrshire contingent gritting their teeth to help raise funds.

Every penny is needed to deal with the increasing number of ex-servicemen and women going to Combat Stress for help.

There has been a 71 per cent increase in referrals over the last five years, leading to an urgent need to support those affected by mental health issues.

Since the summer, the challenge has attracted a massive response with well-known actors and sports stars joining singers and other high-profile participants.

President of Combat Stress, General Peter Wall, said: “The #22PushupChallenge has raised funds for Combat Stress and awareness of veterans’ mental health.

“I would like to thank everyone who has taken part in the challenge and shown their support for the veteran community.”

“Far too many ex-servicemen and women suffer in silence with their mental health conditions. It has been fantastic to see the public get behind this campaign and help us reach out to veterans to let them know support is available.”

As well as events like Hollybush House, people were also doing the challenge and posting videos and photos on social media for a donation of £5, which also enjoyed much local backing.

Sue Freeth of the charity added: “Public support has been fantastic, raising more than £230,000 so far.“It is an incredible amount that will ensure that we meet the growing demand for our services — we are enormously grateful to everyone who is taking part in the challenge. On World Mental Health Day, we called on the country to take part in the challenge and they didn’t disappoint. to raise even more money and awareness to support veterans with mental health conditions.”