Many hours of training have paid off for a Telford duo, who have helped raise over £8,000 for charity.
Grant Hickson from Whitchurch and John Wood from Stoke, who work at Telford Volkswagen, were part of a 17-man team taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge.
They were in the Volkswagen Trampers team with other staff from Inchcape Volkswagen car and van retailers across the UK.
Volkswagen Trampers were raising money for the automotive charity BEN, which provides practical, emotional and financial support for current and past employees of the automotive industry.
Despite the inclement weather, which forced the team to abandon the climb up Scafell Pike in Cumbria because of safety issues, they finished the challenge at the foot of Snowdon.
Grant, sales manager at Telford Volkswagen , said: “We started off in great spirits, but the weather didn’t help, particularly at Scafell Pike.
“Despite everyone being drenched and suffering from aching muscles and blisters, we carried on and made the finish line in a great time.”
John, service manager at Telford Volkswagen, said: “The training was tough but not as tough as the challenge of climbing in cold and wet conditions; it wasn’t exactly summer!
“What kept us going was the money people had donated and we knew we had to finish.”
The team, made up of 13 climbers and four drivers, was captained by Inchcape Volkswagen franchise director, Tony Gorrighan, who was delighted with the team’s efforts.
He said: “The challenge was so much more than the original 40km walk, 3,400m of climbing and 550 miles of traveling.
“Everyone kept each other going during what was a very difficult 24 hours.
“The fact we completed it is down to the sheer determination of everyone involved.”
Volkswagen Trampers were one of nine teams from all Inchcape brands completing the Three Peaks Challenge. In total over £25,000 has so far been raised for BEN, by all the teams involved.
If you wish to donate call in to the Inchcape Volkswagen retailers, on Stafford Park, Telford. Alternatively go online to https://uk.virginmoney.com/service/virgin-money-giving/ and mention Volkswagen Trampers.