A team of dedicated opticians from Ripon Specsavers have raised over £2,000 - quadruple their initial goal – after walking the 49-mile Ripon Loop.
Taking place last month, the ramblers completed the trail in 23.5 hours, raising £1,400 for Cancer Research UK and £1,023 for Vision Care for Homeless People.
They took on the challenge after a member’s mum passed away after being diagnosed with cancer, wanting to raise donations for the important work Cancer Research UK provides.
Vision Care for Homeless People is also close to the heart of Ripon Specsavers, with the team firm believers that everyone should have access to eyecare.
Alison Lee, manager and dispensing optician at Specsavers Ripon, said:
"It was an incredible 24 hours and undeniably challenging – blisters and shin splints made the last few miles feel like forever.
"However, we did it, and I’m unbelievably proud of the whole team, whose determination and spirit got us all to the finish line – our store."
Alison added:
"I can’t believe we managed to double our initial target of £500 per charity. It’s an incredible achievement and knowing it’s going towards vital work to help others is a wonderful feeling.
"I’m sure my mum, whose memory I was walking on behalf of for Cancer Research UK, would’ve been delighted with what we accomplished this weekend.
"We’re so grateful to everyone in the community who supported us through donations, words of encouragement, and those who walked with us in solidarity for the final 14 miles – and especially Katherine’s dad who greeted us with a much-needed cuppa at the Druid’s Temple."
Throughout the route, they were supported by friends, family and Frank (the Specsavers Cockapoo) who provided them with much-needed encouragement to push through.
As they approached the Ripon store on Market Square they were welcomed with clapping and cheering from colleagues and customers, where they were awarded the official Ripon Rowel award, which marked the end of their challenge.
If you’d like to show your support to the team at Ripon Specsavers, donations are still welcomed via the link to their Just Giving page, here: www.justgiving.com/team/specsavers-ripon
Harrogate pub manager to take on Everest trek for hospitality charity
Harewood House unveils new Elf Village for Christmas
Harrogate cyclists conquer Pyrenees challenge in twin town
William and Victoria appeals for help after chairs taken from restaurant
Former Leeds United star Ross McCormack joins Knaresborough Town
Council rejects rumours that housing for the homeless would accommodate asylum seekers
Ripon gritter manufacturer invests £1.1m in new laser cutter
Northern expands mobility scooter access across its train fleet
Plans unveiled for up to 53 homes at Hornbeam Park
Grantley Hall boss named General Manager of the Year
Harrogate buses join fight against town centre crime
Harrogate actor wins festival award after brain surgery
Knaresborough pub goes up for sale - but cannot reopen
Children's boutique and art gallery opens in Knaresborough
Police issue update on body found in Ripon Canal
Retiring North Yorkshire Council chief executive gets pay package of almost £245,000
Harrogate Paralympian challenges controversial Sydney Sweeney sports advert
150 homes planned for green belt land near Harrogate
'Bonkers' burlesque show returns to Harrogate
North Yorkshire residents urged to recycle more household waste
