Hiking heroes raise more than £30,000 for county children’s hospice

Heroic hikers have raised £30,186 for Hope House children’s hospices by topping North Africa’s highest mountain.

The group of 11 dedicated supporters battled hot sun, deep snow and rain to reach the summit of Mt Toubkal in five days at the end of May.

Taking part in the guided charity event were families walking in memory of loved ones, hospice staff and proud supporters who gathered generous sponsorship for local children and families living with a life-threatening condition.

Speaking about the experience Nurse Gemma Jones said: “From the first stages to acclimatize, to the emotional moment of reaching the summit, it was epic on every level.

“We went through every season possible, but the local guides kept us upbeat by singing mesmerising chants.

“The views across the Atlas Mountains seemed to span forever.

“I’m so thankful for this opportunity and will cherish it for the rest of my life.”

After the physicality and mental strength, it took for the group to reach the 4,167-metre-high summit, there were hugs and celebration, but also time for quiet reflection on why they were there.

Hiker, Ben Mates undertook the challenge in memory of his late son, Reggie and wore a poignant T-shirt bearing his son’s photo.

Adam Blackburn trekked in memory of his nephew Barney, who was born sleeping.

Adam carried a teddy called “Barney Bear” with him, which he clutched on the summit.

Hope House Tŷ Gobaith children’s hospices help over 750 children and families across Shropshire, Wales and Cheshire with respite, nursing, physiotherapy and emotional support from their bases in Conwy and Oswestry.

They need to raise £10million per year to run their free services.

Fundraiser for the hospices, Claire Penney was on the hike and said: “It was a complete rollercoaster.

“As a team, we really held each other up when things were tough and singing out loud together kept us going.

“I feel as though we went up there a group of 11 strangers but came down as 11 friends.

“Everyone can be so proud of themselves. The money raised will leave a legacy of love and memories for so many local families.

“Thank you to the whole team and especially our guide, Smyrff of Hike & Bike Snowdonia.”

In 2028, Hope House Tŷ Gobaith will host its own Mount Kilimanjaro challenge in partnership with Global Adventure Challenges.

The trek follows the stunning Machame Route, taking participants through dense jungle, rugged mountain terrain and up to a snow-capped summit.

More information is available online.