‘Incredible’ Mount Olympus challenge helps Shropshire teacher raise almost £1,000 for children's hospice

An Ellesmere teacher has raised almost £1,000 for charity after attempting a demanding double‑summit trek on Greece’s legendary Mount Olympus.

Julie Kirk, a support‑for‑learning teacher at Ellesmere College, travelled to northern Greece to take on two peaks of the mountain in aid of Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith children’s hospices.

The group reached around 2,100m before severe snowfall and “extremely unusual” avalanche risks forced them to abandon the final 800m push to the summits.

“It was an incredible occasion and I am so pleased I was able to support Hope House with the challenge,” Julie said.

She added that extensive training and “a lot of adrenaline” helped her through the trek, which she described as both physically and mentally demanding.

Julie is well known within the school community for her long‑standing support of the hospices.

She previously organised Ellesmere College’s annual Classic Car Rally, which ran alongside the school’s art exhibition and typically raised around £5,000 per event.

“Since moving part‑time I was unable to continue organising the Classic Car Rally, so I started looking for a new way to support Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith,” she said.

“When the opportunity to take part in the Mount Olympus trek arose, I knew it would be the perfect way to continue my fundraising efforts while embracing a new challenge.”

Stephen Mullock, the college’s deputy head of external relations, said Julie’s determination and generosity had inspired staff and pupils alike.

“We are all incredibly proud of Julie and this great achievement, for such a wonderful cause,” he said.

“Her commitment to supporting others is truly inspiring, and we are grateful for the difference her fundraising will make.”

For more information about the charity visit hopehouse.org.uk