Action stations!

Seven intrepid fundraisers from the Action Oldham Fund took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge along with colleagues from their sister charity, Tameside 4 Good.

The team took on the peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, trekking over 24 miles, a distance equivalent to a marathon, and eventually raised over £900 for good causes. 

Susan Pownall, from the Action Oldham Fund, said: “I did lots of training leading up to the walk, but nothing could prepare me for how hard it actually was.

"The whole team were brilliant, really supported each other and we had lots of laughs on the way round.”

Setting off at 7.30am, the team were set a challenge for them all to finish within 12 hours and despite the heat on the day they were all back in the village with just 20 minutes to spare.

Ian Wolstenhulme, from Pearsons Solicitors, added: “I like a challenge and enjoy the great outdoors, especially our countries wonderful countryside.

"Having been involved with Action Together, both in Tameside and Oldham, for around three years now, naturally I jumped at the chance of being part of the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge and fundraiser.

"Personally I underestimated the distance to be covered on the day and the amount of climbing that would be involved.

"Even though I was aching from head to foot by the time we returned to Horton In Ribblesdale, having completed the three peaks my sense of achievement and the sheer scale of what I had just experienced, with a great team and leaders, will live with me for a long time.

"The scenery was quite breath-taking, the weather was very kind to us, although my feet and neck the day after were telling me otherwise.

"Thank you to all the people who have supported us in this challenge. Your generosity will make a massive difference to the lives of people in Tameside and Oldham. What a day, what a team, what a challenge.”

Ross Elliot, first team manager at AFC Oldham, said: “We decided to take part in an event for the Action Oldham Fund after seeing the amazing work that they do around Oldham.

"Our volunteers give up lots of their free time to AFC Oldham and so it’s important to the club that we try to benefit our local community.

"I was really pleased that three other volunteers (Andy, Matt and Micky) from the club came forward to raise some money and take the challenge on.

"The event was well organised, we met some fantastic and inspiring people, and all four of us had a great time on the day.

"We finished well before our target time and we’re delighted to have raised over £900!"

To get involved with Action Oldham Fund’s sponsorship events, contact: susan.pownall@actiontogether.org.uk  

Alternatively, telephone 0161 339 2345.