Lewis Hamilton has put Gary Barlow, Ben Shepherd and Chris Moyles through their paces during a day at the McLaren Technology Centre in preparation for the pair's imminent Kilimanjaro climb for Red Nose Day 2009.

The Formula 1 World Champion met the stars this week to discuss their physical and mental preparation for the climb, before getting them in gear for a work out using McLaren's exclusive fitness facilities.

"It is a phenomenal personal challenge that all the Comic Relief climbers are undertaking and I have a huge amount of respect for them,” Lewis said. “When racing, you are always faced with challenges and they are what pushes and motivates you as a competitor, so I know what must be going through the guy's minds as they prepare for what lies ahead of them”

“It was fantastic to welcome Gary, Ben and Chris here to McLaren and to have the opportunity to wish them, and their team mates, the best of luck. They're all so determined to get to the top and raise as much cash as possible so I'm confident they'll all make it".

Source: McLaren