Clean running water is something most of us take for granted.

But yesterday two Bath fundraisers took part in a sponsored walk to show us how lucky we really are.

Chris Allen, 25 and Marc Coldwell, 35, walked about 30 miles on treadmills outside Bath Abbey.

The stunt, which lasted nearly eight hours, saw the pair carrying urns filled with water for half of the journey.

The aim of the walk was to demonstrate a daily reality for many people all over the world who have to walk this far to collect water.

Chris, who works for Wessex Water, said: "We wanted to visually represent what women in many countries have to do in order to get water for their families.

"Some women have to face this long walk every day and there is still a possibility that the water they get could kill their children."

Marc added: "Our backs will probably hurt for the next week but we don't mind about the pain.

"We just want to create awareness and make a difference."

In their spare time Chris and Marc are supporting Business4Life, a scheme which gives young professionals the opportunity to develop their management skills and raise money for charity.

It consists of a team of 11 people, some of whom work for Wessex Water, who have joined together for a year with the task of raising more than £25,000 for WaterAid.

From the event, the pair hope to raise about £1,500 for the charity, which works to provide clean and safe water to the world's poorest countries.

Regional development manager for WaterAid, Vanessa Ashton, said: "I am really proud of these guys and it is a great idea to raise money.

"A little bit goes an awful long way and everyone is short of money at the moment.

"Fifteen pounds can provide clean, safe water for one person for a lifetime so the money they raise is going to make a huge difference."

Business4Life will also be holding a Christmas market on Sunday at the Bath Royal Scientific and Literary Institution in Queen Square.

A variety of stalls will be on offer at the event, which will start at 11am.

A gospel choir will also be performing Christmas carols throughout the day.