Weightlifters at a High Wycombe gym have managed to smash beat a previous group lifting world record by lifting more than 600 tonnes, while raising money for charity.

As part of a nationwide effort to deadlift the weight of the Titanic’s hull, weighing in at 24,360 tonnes, keen lifters descended on Bulldog Power and Strength gym on West Wycombe road and managed to lift a total of 610 tonnes, smashing the previous record of 470 tonnes.

The group also raised £855 for Macmillan Cancer Support from donations on the day, with more being raised online.

According to Luke Wilson, 21, who co-manages the gym with Henrik Mahoney, 46, around 70 men and women aged between 13 and 60 took part in the event at Bulldog Power and Strength. Lifting bars were loaded with 50, 100, 150, and 200kg weights for participants to attempt their best lift.

Rico Lionetti, 13, from Downley, won the youngest lifter award, lifting a total of 1,050kg, while the gym was also awarded the biggest two person deadlift award with 500kg being lifted by Marc Barnes and Jordan Grimes from Windsor.

Mr Wilson said: "I am absolutely delighted with the effort put in by everyone in breaking the world record. The community came together superbly in a joint effort to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

“A huge thank you to everyone who played a role in this amazing event. Every single one of you should be proud of what you have achieved."