First up was Snowdon in Wales. We started climbing at midnight and we fast realised that this wasn’t going to be as much of a walk in the park as we thought it might be!
Next came Scafell Pike in the Lake District where we had a ‘gentle’ 4 mile hike before even reaching the mountain base, but at least the weather had turned up to the party and the views from the top – as well as a cheeky pint or 2 when we got back down – meant all the effort was worthwhile!
The final test, after a much needed 5 hours sleep, was Ben Nevis in Scotland. It was the highest of the three and the start at sea level meant we had to climb every inch of the height. Several hours later, we were feeling on top of the world and had a celebratory sip of tea from a hot thermos before starting the long trail back to the base of the mountain. Once we were back on the train we had a very welcome glass of champagne and started the 12 hour trip back to London.
In total, it took us a tick over 18 hours of walking in what was an extremely well organised trip and we’d recommend it to anyone who fancies a challenge in support of a great cause. Keep an eye on http://www.railwaychildren.org.uk/ for details on next years climb.
Thank you to everyone for all of your support, we couldn't have done it without you!
---UPDATE 2nd Sept---
So we've all been busy little beavers fundraising in the last couple of months.
First up was a cake stall at work where we had members of the team soldier away in their kitchens making delectable delights (or got others to do the dirty work)! It was a great success and we made about £300 - a very special thanks to those who donated cakes!
Next up was a pool night, expertly organised by Chris. A great night ensued with some mighty challenges, a special thanks to the folk at MatchTech who kindly put on some food. The night raised a cracking £300.
Then Paul, Chris and Charlotte went to Wembley Park where a U2 gig was being played on the 15th August and did the whole bucket rattling thing. We came to the conclusion that perhaps U2 fans aren't as much of a humanitarian / as rich as the fontman of the band, but we still came away with £150, and slightly dampened pride after dressing up as Tom & Jerry (keep an eye out for the costumes at St James's Park station on Friday the 4th Sept!). Still, mascot fights are always great fun.
Also, we'd like to convey a special thanks to Westferry Printers who gave us a whopping £500 (I heard they were the best printers in town), and to everyone who has donated amounts both large and small!
---UPDATE---
On Sunday 5th July, the team roped in some unsuspecting friends and tackled the Tanners Hatch Marathon - a 20 mile walk across rolling countryside (read: big hills, blackberry bushes and stinging nettles) in the North Downs, 40 mins or so south of London.
The first 10 miles flew by but by the 15 mile mark there were a few of us battling through blisters, sore feet, backs and knees, however, failure was not an option and all who started, finished with a well deserved beer. We had a blast doing it, and definitely learned a few valuable lessons for the real test!
So here we are, asking for your support. Railway Children was founded in 1996, and last year helped over 25,000 street children across Africa, Asia and the UK. They help children living alone, at risk, on the streets through a network of partnerships. They stop runaway children from becoming street children.
We will be conquering the 3 peaks - Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis - in under 36 hours. That's 27 miles / 43 kms in what's been likened to running 3 half marathons. In 36 hours. On rough terrain.
Anything you're able to offer will be greatly appreciated.
Please also select to add gift aid to your donation, which means that Railway Children will be able to wrangle a few extra quid from the taxman.
Thanks again,
Paul, Chris, Terry and Charlotte.
