Police officers raise money in mountain challenge (From Gazette Series)

Police officers raise money in mountain challenge

12:40pm Thursday 22nd October 2009 in Yate and Sodbury news By Alexandra Womack

A GROUP of police officers have faced their biggest challenge yet by climbing three of Britain’s highest peaks.

The PCs, all from Avon and Somerset Constabulary, literally had a mountain to climb as they embarked on the Firefighters’ Challenge to reach the top of Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Mount Snowdon within 24 hours.

But Louise Keedwell, PC Sarah Wilkinson, Steve Dickerson and PC Ian Womack managed the gruelling trek with one hour and 35 minutes to spare. They also raised a total of £1,200 for the Great Western Air Ambulance in the process.

PC Wilkinson, who completed the triple ascent for the second time, said: "It was absolutely brilliant.

"For me the weather was better and I found it easier this time."

She added: "We would like to thank everyone who sponsored us especially Avon and Somerset police for providing us with a van and donating the fuel.

"Portbury Docks gave us £200, a solicitors in Charfield donated £30 and Tesco Extra in Bradley Stoke gave us food to keep us going."

The group, who were driven to each destination by PCs Paul Wilkinson and Steve Harris, are all from Charfield and Rangeworthy. They decided to take up the challenge to raise money for the air ambulance after the service saved the life of schoolboy Andrew Bryce when he was hit by a car in Charfield last year.