Member News
Employees from Jesmond and Durham-based Robson Laidler Accountants have conquered the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge whilst raising over £1000 for its Community Fund, which supports charitable projects across the North East.
A total of 10 staff plus 6 clients embarked upon the formidable challenge (on 2nd September), taking on the three highest peaks in the Yorkshire Dales National Park; Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, a 24-mile, 5000ft elevation route, which they all completed within a 12-hour period.
Director Martin Wardle who completed the challenge said: “Despite training for months ahead of the day itself The Yorkshire Three Peaks was both physically and mentally demanding, yet our team embraced everything that was thrown at them - from hiking in 24 degrees heat to blisters and sore knees and everyone completed it, which I am so proud of.
“It was a great way to build camaraderie amongst team members and for our staff to connect with our clients; as what better way to get to know one other than a 12-hour walk up three mountains!
“We are now contemplating our next challenge to raise even more money for our Community Fund. We are proud to be an accredited B Corp, which means our business is on a continual journey to be a force for good. The Robson Laidler Community Fund ensures we’re looking after community commitments long-term. During this challenge we managed to raise a total of £1045.”
The hiking challenge was led by Gateshead-based Alexander Adventures who guided the team through the route and provided food and drink at pit stops along the way.
Founder of Alexander Adventures Joe Alexander said: “It’s not often you get a 100% success rate with these types of challenges but the guys at Robson Laidler smashed it, which is testament to their dedication, mental resilience and focused teamwork helping each other through it.”
The Robson Laidler Community Fund is managed by County Durham Community Foundation. It gives charities and social enterprisesopportunity to apply for funds; the majority of which comes from Robson Laidler’s year-end profits. In line with the firm’s company values, it aims to support causes that alleviate poverty, develop skills and tackle unemployment to raise aspirations in the North East.
In support of the Three Peaks challenge Country Durham Community Foundation has agreed to match every £1 raised with 50p to generate even more funds to support local community activity.
There is still time to support the team with a donation by visiting: https://cdcf.enthuse.com/pf/rl-three-peaks-2023
