Studio Viva Ladies Fitness gym has raised over £800 for Mind in the Vale by participating in a bootcamp on World Mental Health day.

A group of 14 women gathered outside to participate in games, races and activities while in fancy dress.

Louise Shakespeare, owner of the women-only gym at 1 Westgate, says fundraising was a spontaneous decision made after a class on Thursday.

"Through the first lockdown we couldn't open so we were delivering a lot of stuff online," said Louise.

"Then we started an outdoor bootcamp in August. The classes were for exercise initially but the effect that we didn't expect was that the group had really bonded and people shared how the class helped them mentally.

"We were laughing one evening after class and saying that this is great for us to come together.

"One of the girls said that it was mental health awareness day on Saturday, and suggested raising money for it.

"Less than 48 hours later we did it," she said.

The women donated to Mind in the Vale to take part and afterwards fundraised on Cowbridge high street.

More donations came through the gym afterwards and in total the women raised £820.50 for the mental health charity.

Mind in the Vale of Glamorgan works with people who have a lived experience of mental health to offer support to achieve and maintain a more fulfilling life and to play a full and equal part within the community.

Louise said all participants were pleased to support the charity.

"It was great fun we were really pleased it came together so quickly," she said.

"Lots of people have had mental health issues through this lockdown, so it's great to raise money to support them.

"Being in fancy dress was so funny, and we got a lot of people passing by looking at what we were doing, especially at my colleague Caroline who was in an inflatable suit," said Louise.

Mind in the Vale of Glamorgan offer support to anyone who is experiencing difficulties with their mental health across the Vale.

"We are so grateful when a community group or business chooses to raise funds for us," said its spokesperson.

"Not only does this help us to provide an excellent service to thousands of people across the Vale but it helps to start a conversation about mental health.

"We have continued to offer guided self help, welfare calls, peer support, practical support, psycho educational courses and full assessments through the pandemic.

"If you need to access support, you can email [email protected] or call 01446730792."