Peaks reached to raise funding

WE did it . . . chief executive of Team Spirit Ian Taylor (left) with Mahdlo chairman Terry Flanagan

A TEAM of avid walkers have raised thousands of pounds for two worthy causes after taking on the Three Peaks of Saddleworth.

The 20-mile hike over the top of Indian's Head, Pots and Pans and Wharmton Hill was undertaken by 138 inspirational walkers.

Thanks to their collective efforts, two charities ­- Mahdlo Youth Zone and Parents of Oldham in Touch (POINT) ­- will benefit from more than £9,000.

But it was a double win for participants who were able to enjoy amazing views across the borough and beyond.

Development manager at Mahdlo Youth Zone, Claire Crossfield, said: "What an incredible day.

Impact
"We can't thank the walkers enough. They challenged themselves and pushed on even when it got tough, raising thousands of pounds that will have a direct and positive impact on the young people of Oldham.

"It was fantastic to see local businesses and members of the community coming together for what was a truly special event."

Mahdlo is open seven days a week for young people across Oldham, while POINT is a forum for parents and carers of children and young people with disabilities in Oldham.

Staff and volunteers from the two charities, Greater Manchester Police, and a group of international students from America and Australia on an internship with CRCC Asia were among the 138 dedicated walkers. A whole host of businesses were represented including Team Spirit, Ribble Packaging, Web Applications UK, Tesco stores, and Capita Translation and Interpreting.

HR director of Oldham-based manufacturers Ribble Packaging, Sam Barber, said: "This year, team Ribble have focused our fundraising efforts on supporting charities which make a real difference to our local area.

"Mahdlo has been at the heart of our community for many years and is a charity known to many of our employees and their families. With this in mind we decided to take part in the Three Peaks of Saddleworth challenge to support the great work which Mahdlo continues to do."

Walkers set off from Saddleworth Rangers ARLFC and were spurred on at checkpoints along the way, which included a picnic stop at Dovestone Sailing Club and a post-walk barbecue at Saddleworth Rangers where a raffle was held.

Amazing

POINT chief executive Andrew Robinson said: "A massive thank-you to everyone who supported the day, walkers and sponsors alike. It was an amazing event and the monies raised for POINT will help families of children and young people with additional needs and disabilities in Oldham to access essential information, advice and support to help their young people."

The event was sponsored by The Bloxham Charitable Trust, Clearwater International, Ribble Packaging, The Holroyd Foundation and James Scott.