Salisbury Hospice Charity Mont Blanc trekkers raise £35k

12 trekkers have completed three stages of the Mont Blanc tour raising a total of £35,000 for Salisbury Hospice charity.

Over five days during the first week of September, 12 trekkers travelled 30 miles on foot up a 2690 feet elevation.

Many of the determined individuals signed up for the charity trek in October 2019. After several date changes due to the recent pandemic, the trek finally went ahead with much anticipation.

Michelle and Tommy Reid, who signed up in October 2019 and dedicated the trek to Michelle’s Mum, who died in the hospice, said “We can’t believe we are here and that we have done it, after everything that has happened!”

The trek started at Courmayeur, Italy, the base of Col de Ferret, which meant an immediate and steep climb at an already high altitude, which proved challenging for most group members. After working together as a team, with serious amounts of encouragement and banter, the whole group reached the summit, the equivalent of climbing Salisbury Cathedral spire seven times.

Day Two followed the Dranse de Ferret through the valley, surrounded by beautiful forests, traditional Swiss villages and farms, before climbing steeply to Champex. There were some challenging ascents and sharp descents but again, with the support and encouragement of the group, six hours of trekking later, the group arrived in Champex, and the braver enjoyed a very fresh swim in Champex Lac.

The third and final day of the trek presented a few challenges for already tired and tight muscles – approximately 10.5 miles to cover, including a long steady climb reaching a maximum elevation of 2575 feet. This included some crossing points so steep and dangerous they were supported by metal chains along the side of the mountain.

Shortly after 2.30pm, and an hour ahead of schedule, a weary, emotional, triumphant group of trekkers arrived at Col de Forclaz, having completed the challenge they had set themselves – some three years ago, some only six months ago. Some with many miles of training in their legs, some with the added advantage of having hills to train on, but all with the determination, courage, motivation and intent to do it.

Mark Williams commented, “Suzi and I are delighted to have helped support the amazing team at the Salisbury Hospice. As trekking newbies, we were a little apprehensive but the whole trip was an amazing experience and no doubt it will be the first of many! Feel good factor - 100%!!! Thank you team Hospice."

Moyra Rowney, the Events Fundraiser, added, “We are in awe of the determination of this extraordinary group of individuals. The money they have raised from this trek will greatly benefit Salisbury Hospice, ensuring that the vital end-of-life care the hospice provides reaches those in need in our community. A huge thank you to all our trekkers.”

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