We will be completing the Three Peaks Challenge in August, to raise much needed funds for St Giles Hospice. This will involve climbing the three highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours - walking a total of 37km and ascending over 10,000ft.

We are taking on this challenge in memory of James' mum (Margaret) and Neil's dad (John), both of whom received excellent palliative care from the hospice.

John passed away 30 years ago and Margaret spent her final days at St Giles more recently, in November 2024. It feels the perfect time to raise money for this amazing hospice. Their caring team helped us and our families in dark times - now it's our turn to help them, so that they can continue to support local families when they need it most.

For clarity, every pound donated will go to St Giles Hospice. Click 'Read Story' below to hear from each of us and see some fun pics!

Neil: 'I have chosen to raise funds for St Giles Hospice because of the outstanding care they gave my Dad when it finally became clear that his brave fight with cancer was over. This isn't just about the care they gave him but how kind and considerate they were with Mum, Anne and me. Nothing was too much trouble for them, they were amazing. My Dad was just 49 years old when he went, younger than I am now. I am doing this for him. It's fitting to be completing this with James who together with me, as teenagers, used to irritate my Dad on a regular basis... this feels the right way for us to pay him back!'

James: 'My mum spent her final days in St Giles Hospice in November 2024. Although dementia had taken its toll on her, she always had a twinkle in her eye - and she was well looked after at the Hospice until the end. In her 40s, my mum took up running - I've never been sure if she genuinely loved the fresh air and exercise, or if she mainly appreciated getting a break out of the house from me, my brother and my dad! Given that she hiked the Three Peaks in 24 hours when she was about my age, I'm looking forward to following in her footsteps and taking on this challenge in her memory. (She also completed several marathons, but that would be a step too far!)'