The team at Smeg love a challenge and in previous years we have done half marathons, marathons (including a mince pie marathon), large scale cycle events and Race to the Stones.

 2023 is no different and we have a group who will be working hard to train in the run up to the main event of the Three Peak Challenge in 24 hours in June! Included in the team are a group of willing volunteers to drive between each location whilst the walkers are resting.

We are proud to be supporting SpecialEffect again and we have been lucky to see first hand some of the wonderful work they do and the impact it has to individuals that are already facing huge challenges in their day to day life.

SpecialEffect enable people with severe physical disabilities to use
technology for communication and leisure - playing video games when they
otherwise wouldn't be able to - using whichever part(s)of their body that work
best - chin, foot, finger, toe, eyes, knee or head control; we’ll find a way.
It’s so important that everyone can join in with family & friends, to be
included and not left out. All too often disability leaves a person isolated.

SpecialEffect assess a person's needs and adapt technology to harness
whatever controlled movement they have, and create bespoke gaming setups to
enable them to play to the best of their abilities. Being included hugely
benefits mental wellbeing and quality of life – bringing much needed
independence, fun and escapism. Their support is completely free of charge and
is for life, particularly important for when things change and need to be
adapted (such as a progressive condition like muscular dystrophy or spinal
muscular atrophy where muscles/abilities weaken over time. Or when a new game
or console comes out!).

They specialise in Eye Control Technology. Imagine: You wake up after an
accident. You are paralysed and can’t move anything except your eyes. And you
can’t speak. Through eye-movement alone, they help people operate a computer
for vital communication and to regain a little independence - giving them a
voice when they don’t have one of their own. Because they don’t charge a penny
for their services, they rely on & are indebted to wonderful supporters and
fundraising events. So I want to try to do my bit, & with your help we
might be able to make a difference.

We are truly grateful for every penny donated.

Thank you!