Soldiers from Oxfordshire serving in Iraq have raised money for charity in a series of endurance tests which saw them rowing the English Channel, climbing Ben Nevis and skiing in the Scottish Highlands -- without leaving their desert outpost.

The team of soldiers, above, from Dalton Barracks, Abingdon, collected more than £1,600 from the 24-hour Iron Man fundraiser.

The troops, from 4 General Support Regiment Royal Logistic Corps based in Basra, completed the exercises on gym equipment -- simulating a 22-mile trip across the channel on a rowing machine, mountain climb on a step machine, a 35-mile ski around Aviemore on a cross trainer machine and a 40-mile cycle ride around Morecambe Bay on an exercise bike.

Earlier this month £3,500 was raised by soldiers running for charity at events in Iraq and Abingdon, including a punishing half-marathon around Basra's Shiabah logistic base.

Supporters donated money throughout the day, while the NAAFI provided the competitors with food and drink.

Sergeant Danny O'Donnell was the first to get to the top of Ben Nevis but admitted he was a "bit disappointed by the view from the top of the step machine".

Sergeant Adam Ross said it was tough going and added: "All the tasks were difficult, demanding mental and physical stamina and determination. We were in training two or three times a day on top of our normal duties."

The event raised money for neurological and a cancer charities.

Sgt Ross's father was paralysed following a stroke and Sgt O'Donnell's mother died from cancer.

Sgt Ross said the weather in Iraq had been a mixture of rain and hot sun. He said: "One day it will rain like you've never seen in England and the next day it will be scorching."

At the Shiabah Logistic base, the regiment is kept busy undertaking normal logistical tasks. Sgt Ross said: "Morale is high due to the fact that we have now passed our half way point of the tour."

He added: "If anybody would like to write to a soldier for a pen pal, male or female, or needs any information about us then send all mail to my address and it will be forwarded."

Write to Sgt Ross at 81 Postal and Courier Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps 4 General Support Composite Regiment BFPO 645 or e-mail wasuprossy@hotmail.com