Charity supporters conquer the Three Peaks

13 June 2024 | Supporters, Fundraising

The ‘Peaky Climbers’ have raised over £12,000 for Brain Tumour Support through their mountainous challenge.

Our incredible supporters from Shirehampton, Bristol, faced a mountainous challenge last weekend – and conquered it! In fact, they conquered three mountains over the course of 24 hours, climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon – the three highest peaks of Scotland, England and Wales – to complete the National Three Peaks Challenge.

The ‘Peaky Climbers’, a team of eight climbers and three support crew, started their challenge in Scotland on Saturday afternoon, with their first goal being the ascent of Ben Nevis. They faced tough, cold and wet conditions but completed it in just under five hours. Then the team were straight on the road to Scafell Pike, aiming to start that ascent before 4 am. The second summit, again facing blustery and brutal weather, was achieved by 6 am. The final leg, Snowdon, was a gruelling 5.5 miles to the summit and back, but they made it! Their challenge was completed, with 25 minutes of the 24-hour timeframe remaining.

Group member Ben Smart reflected on the experience: “We knew the challenge was going to be tough, but it was made even harder due to the bad weather we experienced throughout. The blizzard we encountered at the top of Ben Nevis was something we’ll probably never experience again….snow, 40mph+ winds, creating -12°c wind chill and really poor visibility.

“The challenge was something I don’t think any of us will forget for a very long time, and it was great to share it with such a lovely bunch of lads.

“I’d also like to thank the people who have contributed behind the scenes because without them, the challenge wouldn’t have been possible. This includes the loan of the minibus, which was kindly donated by Mike Nichols of BS3 Ltd Garages.”

Ben Smart with his dad Geoff, after the successful challenge

The Peaky Climbers not only succeeded in their challenge but hit their £10,000 fundraising target too. They are now aiming to raise as much as possible, knowing that every pound is vital to provide much-needed support for families affected by brain tumours.

It was the family experiences of Ben and his fellow climber, and brother-in-law, Jonathan Golder, that have driven the passion behind the fundraising. Back in 2004, Jonathan sadly lost his stepdad, aged just 49, to a glioblastoma brain tumour. Then, in November last year, Ben’s dad, Geoff, received the same diagnosis after being admitted to Southmead Hospital, having had a huge seizure out of the blue. He has since had surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and is doing well. However, his sudden diagnosis brought into focus the reality that a brain tumour can affect anyone at any time, and there is a desperate need for more support, research and awareness of the devastating impact that the disease has on so many families every year.

Ben has been delighted by their successful fundraising:

“Raising the amount of money we have is incredible, and I hope it helps many individuals and families receive the support they require from the charity.

“We have a homecoming party coming up, so I’d also like to thank the Lifeboat Inn for hosting and everyone who has donated prizes for the raffle, which should help raise even more for Brain Tumour Support.”

Emma McKeown, Deputy CEO at Brain Tumour Support, explained the good that the funds will do: “This fundraising makes a real difference for a charity like ours. As an indication of how it will help, the incredible amount already donated could enable over 35 families to receive support and family counselling to help them through the devastating and complex impact that a brain tumour diagnosis can have. In addition, the awareness raised within the community and the love and support demonstrated by everyone who has been part of, or contributed to, this challenge are phenomenal. It is truly inspiring.”

The homecoming celebration and fundraising event is at the Lifeboat Inn in Shirehampton, on Saturday 15 June from 7 pm.

You can still donate to the Peaky Climbers’ JustGiving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/team/the-peaky-climbers-