A group of Isle of Man firefighters is bidding to raise cash for charity by climbing three mountains in just 24 hours.
The 3 Peaks Challenge is being supported by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, which is covering the cost of the team’s travel to and from the Island.
Clio Swales, Mark Cleator, Richie Sims, Rod Clayton, Sam Quilleash and Dave Rielly, who are all retained firefighters based at Laxey Fire Station, make up the team which will take on the challenge. With Dave acting as driver, the other five will attempt to scale Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England and Snowdon in Wales on 30th June.
Clio explained: ‘We saw an advert in Firestyle Magazine for the annual Firefighters 3 Peaks Challenge and, as far as we know, there has never been a team from the Island take part before. We felt it would be a good challenge as well as an opportunity to raise funds for a worthwhile cause that helps benefit Isle of Man firefighters.
‘Everyone in the team enjoys regular exercise, like walking, cycling and hill running, and consider ourselves pretty active - but this is going to be a real challenge!’
She added: ‘We are extremely grateful to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company for covering the cost of getting our van and team to and from the UK for the challenge.’
The group hopes to raise at least £1,000 for The Fire Fighters Charity, which provides services to enhance quality of life for serving and retired firefighters, fire personnel and their families. It operates three physical rehabilitation centres and aids emotional recuperation for those who have suffered injury, illness, stress or bereavement.
The charity is reliant on donations and fundraising to meet its annual costs of more than £8 million.
Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: ‘Attempting to reach the top of three mountains across England, Scotland and Wales in just 24 hours is a tremendous challenge, so I wish the team all the best. The Fire Fighters Charity is a very worthwhile cause, which offers support to our firefighters here in the Isle of Man, and we are delighted to be able assist.’
Swales Flooring is also supporting the challenge by contributing a vehicle and meeting fuel costs.
To donate visit www.justgiving.com/laxeyfirefighters3peakschallenge.
Photograph: Team members, from left, Rod Clayton, Mark Cleator, Clio Swales, Richie Sims and Sam Quilleash
