TWENTY TWO hikers raised thousands of pounds for vulnerable children by completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.

The team members had a range of abilities and all were taking part in the hike for the first time to support The Children’s Society’s work with disadvantaged young people. Together they have raised £4,927 so far.

Helen Whiteley, 46, a fundraising manager for The Children’s Society from Yeadon was delighted to make it across the gruelling terrain. She said: "I have never done a big walk like this, but I thought it would be good to come together as a group and raise money to help disadvantaged young people all over the country.

"Being from Yorkshire, the Three Peaks has been on my to-do list for a while so doing a challenge like this for the charity I work for was the perfect opportunity. I’d recommend it to support a great charity that is working with young people across the region and for the spectacular scenery and views of Yorkshire in all its glory"

Team member Louise Paine Davey, 49, took part to get fit and raise money to mark her fiftieth birthday.

She said: "The Yorkshire Three Peaks was a serious physical challenge, but a huge achievement. I thought that rather than spend money on loads of parties, I’d spend it on getting fit and take on challenges to raise money for the wonderful charity I work for. It’s looking to be one of my best years yet."

Kiera Auty, 32, who organised the trip and works as a partnership manager at the charity added: "After weeks of training and rallying the team, it felt amazing to finally complete the challenge. It was a great way to get to know colleagues and make new friends from across the country – and all for such a worthy cause."

Reena Ruda, challenge events co-ordinator, said: "It is wonderful to hear of groups and individuals who get outside their comfort zone to raise money towards our vital work with vulnerable young people. This team deserves to be really proud of their achievement, and we are so grateful for the impressive training and fundraising so far."

The team’s main online sponsorship page can be viewed at https://www.justgiving.com/companyteams/TCSThreePeaksChallenge