A NINE-STRONG team of intrepid police officers from the Island have been scaling new heights in their efforts to raise money for charity.
The officers were today (Friday) attempting to complete the Three Peaks Challenge, which involves climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon within 24 hours.
They are due to travel to Scotland early on Wednesday, and start at the base of Ben Nevis at 6am today (Thursday).
If all goes to plan, they should finish at the base of Snowdon at 6am tomorrow (Friday).
The team is raising money for the Neurofibromatosis Association, in memory of well-known Island teenager Asa Singleton, who died earlier this year.
The officers taking part are PC Dominic Goodsell (Metropolitan Police), PC Matt Wilford, PC Pete Burdis, PC Simon O’Dea, PC Stuart D’Costa, PC Tim Campany, PC Tom Gamble, PC Ben Mitchell and PC Dave Hughes.
PC Wilford, said: "The team chose this challenge as we are all keen walkers, and want a demanding target to help raise the profile of the charity.
"This challenge is going to be exceptionally testing. It involves around 15 hours of walking, over 25 miles, with only a few hours recovery between each peak. We expect it to be tough, but intend to encourage each other through the climbs."
In order to prepare for the walk, the climbers have completed training walks in the Brecon Beacons and taken part in this year’s Earl Mountbatten Hospice Walk the Wight.
People can follow their progress through pictures and video on the team’s Facebook page (Three Peaks In 24 Hours).
For further information e-mail
matthew.wilford@hampshire.pnn.police.uk and donations can be made online at
http://www.justgiving.com/iowthreepeaks/.