Trekkers complete gruelling Three Peaks Challenge for Alexander Devine charity

A team of trekkers scaled the tallest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales to help fund a new sensory garden for the Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.

Staff from Berkshire-based digital consultancy firm, FSP, raised more than £10,000 for the children’s charity by completing the gruelling National Three Peaks Challenge.

The intrepid walkers kicked off their charity quest by climbing Ben Nevis in Scotland on the evening of Thursday, May 9.

They then travelled overnight to Scafell Pike in the Lake District with an unexpected road closure adding an extra two hours to their journey along the Scottish coast.

After scaling England’s tallest mountain, the team’s convoy dashed over to Snowdonia National Park in Wales to climb Mount Snowdon.

The lung-busting challenge left some weary legs but the walkers were greeted with stunning conditions as they reached the summit of their final climb.

Challenge leader James Culley said: “It was pretty horrific to be honest. On Scafell Pike it was really hard with cramp setting in and everyone was exhausted through lack of sleep.

“But the weather was absolutely stunning on Snowdon. We were completely worn out but we knew we were so close to finishing.

“The scenes when we got to the bottom were just fantastic, everyone was so proud of themselves.”

FSP, based at Thames Valley Park, near Sonning, raised £10,100 in total which aims to support Alexander Devine continue its work putting smiles on the faces of children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.

James added: “A lot of us have been to the site and seen the work they do. We know just how vital a resource it is and it’s hard for charities right now.

“We know they want to create a sensory garden for the children and hopefully with the money we’ve raised they can put some extra money into that if they want to.”