Adventurous colleagues were left on a high after raising nearly £4,700 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). Staff from Pentaco Construction took on the Three Peaks Challenge, which involves climbing the highest peaks in England, Scotland and Wales – Scafell Pike, Ben Nevis and Snowdon respectively – within 24 hours. Between them they tackled 23 miles, ascending 3,064 metres, and raised £4,665. Proud representatives handed over a cheque to EACH Corporate Fundraising Manager Caroline Allen during a recent visit to The Nook. “We’ve been overwhelmed at the support from our supply chain – not only in donating but also our headline sponsors, Newnham Structures, Gowing & Hunt and LNS Interiors,” said Pentaco Social Value and Engagement Manager Louise Reeve. “Without them, it wouldn’t have been possible. “We actually reduced our initial target from £5,000 to £3,000 when a few of the team dropped out, nervous of the mission ahead. However, we ended up getting close to the original amount. “Because the challenge is so well known and popular, people seemed happy to donate as they know it’s such a significant task and huge commitment.” Contracts Manager Chris Clow added: “As a team, we found it extremely difficult and the majority commented on how they’d underestimated the terrain and scrambling that was required – not to mention the snow. “Scafell proved the most challenging of the peaks but the scenery was overwhelming. “One of our walkers, Jon Kent, decided to set his alarm for 4am to do his own six-mile hike before even starting the challenge! “There were a few knee injuries along the way but, overall, all bar two completed all three peaks.” Despite the scale of the challenge, the team stuck together and were on hand to offer words of motivation and encouragement. “We had five walkers that were back down from Ben Nevis in a really impressive time,” added Louise. “However, they decided they wanted to wait for the full team to come down before setting off for Scafell. “The team motivation and support was great to see, with lots of encouraging hugs and those more capable sticking with others that were starting to struggle. “No-one was left alone and the support crew were fully appreciated as the driving was a huge challenge in itself, especially with the lack of sleep.” Pentaco Construction work across the East of England, with offices in Norwich and Cambridge. The team’s Three Peaks Challenge took place from 26th to 28th May. EACH supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Suffolk and Essex. It has three hospices – The Nook, in Framingham Earl, The Treehouse, in Ipswich, and at Milton, near Cambridge.
