A TEAM of fitness enthusiasts are preparing to scale three mountains in 24 hours for a Dorset cancer charity. 

The eight-strong team of staff and clients from Coach House Fitness in Lytchett Matravers near Poole will be attempting the gruelling Three Peaks Challenge on July 6. 

Their goal is to climb the three highest peaks of Scotland, England, and Wales – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) – one after another, in under 24 hours. 

All the money they raise through sponsorship will be donated to the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF), which offers financial support to local people who have been diagnosed with cancer. 

Matt Hatchard, the owner of Coach House Fitness explained: “We have been inspired to undertake this challenge by one of our gym members Clare Zsigo, who lives in Wool and was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. 

“We like to do a charity challenge every year to sponsor a local charity close to our hearts. Last year we did a 24-hour rowathon, which raised over £1,000 for the local primary school here in Lytchett Matravers. 

“Clare was all primed to take part in the three peaks with us this year until her diagnosis.  

“Her GP is the Wellbridge Practice in Wool and one of the doctors there, Richard Mugford, who is on the Three Peaks Challenge with us, recommended the DCCF as a worthy cause to support. 

“Everyone on the team was thrilled with this idea and so we are going all out to raise as much money for this charity in honour of Clare.” 

Some of the team members walking above Lulworth Cove in preparation for the challenge

The famous Three Peaks Challenge requires considerable fitness and meticulous planning. Ben Nevis stands at 1,345 metres and is the highest peak in Scotland and the UK. Scafell Pike is the tallest peak in England at 978 metres, and Snowdon is Wales’ highest mountain at 1,085 metres.  

The Coach House Fitness team is undertaking 30-mile walks around some of Dorset’s most rugged and challenging Jurassic coastline to ensure their fitness. 

Matt added: “We have a great mixed team: with a nurse, GP, the medical secretary at Wool surgery, a paramedic from Poole and clients from our gym.” 

The CHF team is made up of: Angela Robins, Ben Cleal, Bev Symes, John Flavin, Jenna Flavin, Louis Tucker, Matt Hatchard and Dr. Richard Mugford who will be joined by driver David Ivall, who will be making sure they are transported between all three peaks in enough time to achieve their 24-hour time limit. 

Matt continued: “It’s a tough challenge, a real test of endurance, determination and teamwork, and people’s donations will not only motivate us, but also make a real difference to local families battling cancer.” 

DCCF provides crucial financial assistance to Dorset residents undergoing cancer treatment. From helping with travel expenses to covering household bills, the DCCF ensures that patients and their families can focus on recovery without the added stress of financial burdens.  

The charity’s fundraising manager Jannine Loveys said: “We are absolutely thrilled to hear that the team from Coach House Fitness has chosen us as their beneficiary for such an amazing challenge and are completely in awe of what they are preparing to do. 

“We hope people will show their appreciation too by sponsoring them. Every penny given will go directly to a Dorset family which is struggling financially because of a cancer diagnosis.” 

To donate, visit their JustGiving page.