People in Jersey are taking part in a national challenge today to raise money for local charities.

The 2.6 challenge has been created after the London Marathon had to be cancelled because of coronavirus.

It lasts for a week and involves people taking on an activity around the numbers 2.6 or 26.

They also must be done while abiding by government instructions on exercise and social distancing.

A host of Jersey organisations are urging their supporters to take part to raise valuable funds at such a difficult time:

* Jersey Sport are suggesting a 2.6 mile walk run or cycle, doing 26 press ups or doing a 26 minute online exercise class. Money pledged will go to Beresford Street Kitchen, Jersey Hospice Care and the Salvation Army.

"Anyone of any age and ability can get involved and take part, but we're reaching out to our friends in the local sporting community to get involved and support this very worthwhile initiative. We know how sports people like a good challenge!

"We'd love to see as many sports people taking part as possible to raise money for local charities. Please share your photos or videos of your 2.6 challenge on social media using the official hashtag #TwoPointSixChallenge along with #JerseySport to help inspire others." - Catriona McAllister, CEO.

* Durrell has already seen supporters pledge to take part in the challenge, which includes ambassador Milo Parker, who plays Gerry in 'The Durrell's', cycling 2.6 miles and illustrator Pippa Pixley sharing her love for charity shops by changing outfits 26 times in 26 minutes.

Other ideas mooted by the conservation charity include a 26 minute yoga session, reading 26 pages from Gerald Durrell's book to friends and family or doing a 26 minute animal themed quiz.

"This is a really difficult time for charities both big and small that are struggling to fill the void of cancelled fundraising events. The 2.6 Challenge is a collaborative campaign that enables us to reach out to our supporters and invite them to have fun, be creative and help raise funds. This will be a national appeal with many famous faces taking part to inspire others to take part or donate." - Beth Gallichan, Durrell Fundraising Manager.

* MacMillan Jersey, like Durrell, has also been hit hard by fundraising and community event cancellations. The cancer support charity is asking for donations here by taking part in challenges such as a 26 hour sponsored silence or eating 26 biscuits in 2.6 minutes.

"This is such a great campaign and something to get the whole family involved in. Like so many charities, we have adapted our services to ensure we can still provide the same quality emotional support for anyone affected by cancer in Jersey. Further to this we have expanded our service by working with Jersey Hospice Care to ensure anyone affected by cancer and COVID-19 is supported. We are asking all of our amazing supporters to join us in this fun and creative challenge whilst raising the vital funds the charity needs. As a local charity, all the money we raise in Jersey, stays in Jersey." - Steph Gibaut, Head of Operations and Fundraising.

Are you taking part in the challenge and if so, what are you doing and who are you supporting? Let us know on our Facebook page.