The Active April initiative saw 134 staff across the two islands log their activity for a month, with points awarded for kilometres completed. Individuals and teams won prizes for the most activity.

Staff were randomly divided into teams of six, led by a member of the bank’s executive committee.

A company survey found 88% of staff exercised more during Active April. 77% said the challenge increased their motivation to exercise, and 96% felt it improved their wellbeing.

During the challenge, staff recorded their activity using the app Strava, with some logging significant distances. The cycle challenge winner, Andy Dobber, cycled 715 km – the equivalent of about 10 times around Jersey. Katie Park walked 430 km. And Nick McPhail ran 446 km.

88% of staff surveyed said they would try to maintain or increase their exercise levels once the challenge finished and 98% of staff said they would like to see the challenge return next year.

James Pountney, CEO, Santander international, said: “The challenge was an excellent way to help motivate staff to get out and enjoy activities, while the team nature of the event meant staff got to know colleagues across the organisation, both in Jersey and the Isle of Man, better.

“Active April included a range of activities accessible for anyone, that could even be completed during lockdown conditions. For some staff it was about putting their fitness to the test and logging impressive distances. For others it was an encouragement to get out for a ramble with the kids or take a stroll at lunchtime. It has had an incredibly positive impact on staff fitness and wellbeing, and there is strong demand to make this an annual challenge.”