Many hours of training have paid off for a close-knit group of friends from the Wirral after they took on the Three Peaks Challenge in memory of their old school friend Paul Gaddas (23) from Burton, who sadly died earlier this year.
Due to the treacherous weather conditions throughout Cumbria last week the team we’re prevented from climbing Scafell Pike by the emergency services.
As a compromise the group climbed Snowdon twice, this meant that all 24 miles of walking were completed albeit over two mountains, instead of the proposed three.
The team hopes to raise over £1,000 for the Papyrus charity, which aims to raise awareness of depression in young people and help to prevent young suicides. The team is currently over halfway to the total, with £524 currently donated.
They were inundated with support, and were extremely grateful to Liverpool Volkswagen Van Centre, which donate them the use of a Volkswagen Caravelle to transport everyone to and between each of the mountains.
Team leader, David Wallis, from Parkgate, said: “Paul was an extremely energetic lad who loved nothing more than setting himself physical challenges, which is why we took on the Three Peaks Challenge.
“Unfortunately the weather didn’t help us and we had to abandon our attempt to get anywhere near Scafell Pike. Luckily we were able to get away unscathed, but felt sorry for people stuck and living in the flood hit areas, the scenes were unreal.
“All funds raised will be donated to the Papyrus charity, significantly helping the charity to support and offer advice to young people suffering with depression, as well as raising awareness of the condition.
“We’ve received some brilliant support from friends and family, but being able to have the Caravelle from Liverpool Volkswagen Van Centre means the money we’d allocated for transport can go direct to the charity.
“We also received food and refreshments from Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons, which helped fuel the climbers, something which was also very much appreciated.”
Dave Cowan, Liverpool Volkswagen Van Centre’s head of business, said: “As a business we’re always looking to help people who are doing positive things within their local community.
“David and his team have done something inspirational for their friend and I didn’t hesitate when they asked for help with the fundraising challenge.”
To donate and help the team reach their £1,000 target, simply go to www.justgiving.com/paul-gaddas or text GADD88 to 70070 followed by ‘£2’, ‘£5’ or ‘£10’.