Walkers tackle hills and heat to complete Mendip Challenge for Weston Hospicecare

Becky and Presley who completed the 10-mile route. (Image: Archant)

Walkers, aged three to 79, battled with sweltering temperatures as they took on the 10, 20 and 30-mile routes along West Mendip Way, which runs from Wells to Uphill.

The amount raised is not yet known, but with participant numbers more than 100 up on 2017, the Uphill-based charity is hoping to exceed last year’s total of £56,056.

Event organiser Kelsey Dehaney said: “This year’s Mendip Challenge was a huge success, and we were bowled over by the amount of people who signed up to take part.

“Completing the event really was an impressive feat this year, with temperatures hitting 26C on parts of the course, and it means so much to everyone at Weston Hospicecare to see walkers making such an immense effort on our behalf.

Friends enjoying a much-deserved rest after receiving their medals. (Image: Archant)

“We’re enormously grateful to everyone who took part, and of course everyone who sponsored them too – every penny really is appreciated.

“Of course, an event of this size needs a huge amount of help to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely, so we’re indebted to all those who gave up their time and expertise to support us.

“That includes our event sponsor Howards Motor Group, and practical support on the day from the likes of Wessex 4x4 Response drivers, the medical team at MRU Services, and the radio team from Raynet.

Walkers ready to enjoy the after-party after completing the challenge. (Image: Archant)

MORE: Weston Hospicecare thanks sponsors and fundraisers ahead of Mendip Challenge.

“We also want to thank Westhaven School for hosting our after-party, Bakers Dolphin for getting participants safely to their starting points, and Lidl for donating the snacks and water which kept our walkers refreshed en route.

“Plus, we need to thank our army of volunteers who made it all possible, manning checkpoints, supporting walkers, running registration desks and more – they were all superstars, and all helped make the day such a runaway success.”

Walkers with their medals. (Image: Archant)

Proceeds from the fundraiser will be used to support the hospice’s vital work caring for people from North Somerset with life-limiting illnesses and supporting their families.

The Mercury entered a team, with journalists and staff completing the 10-mile course, raising almost £400.

MORE: Weston Mercury journalists to join Mendip Challenge.

Fundraisers celebrating with a well-earned drink after the feat. (Image: Archant)

Next year’s Mendip Challenge – in Weston Hospicecare’s 30th anniversary year – is set to take place on June 2, 2019.

Fundraisers celebrating the end of the Mendip Challenge. (Image: Archant)

Three walkers celebrating with their medals. (Image: Archant)

Weston Hospicecare Mendip Challenge. Walkers on the last stretch. (Image: Archant)

Weston Hospicecare Mendip Challenge. Volunteers at the very busy Loxton check point. (Image: Archant)

Weston Hospicecare Mendip Challenge. Sue and Kath Brine, Kath (right) managed to walk the sole off of her boot. (Image: Archant)

Weston Hospicecare Mendip Challenge, The Mercury Mob taking in the views. (Image: Archant)

Walkers enjoying the views along the West Mendip Way. (Image: Archant)

Groups of friends took on the walk to raise money for the charity. (Image: Archant)

Participants also took their pets along to enjoy the walk. (Image: Archant)

Fundraisers relaxing after tackling the challenge. (Image: Archant)

Weston Hospicecare Mendip Challenge. The Mercury Team with their medals for completing 10 miles. (Image: Archant)