Fundraisers go the extra mile in £24,000 Kilimanjaro trek for Leeds hospice

A team of 32 adventurers tackled the Kilimanjaro challenge, raising more than £106,000 for the Sue Ryder charity.

The money could help pay for 7,630 hours of care.

Nicola Cromack and Sasha Ingala took part in the trek in tribute to their friend Gemma, who received at Wheatfields Hospice.

Nicola said: “It was horrendously wonderful and we know Gemma was in our hearts helping us to accomplish our trek.

“She was with us every step of the way on our journey to the top of the mountain.

“The team was fantastic and I feel privileged to have been surrounded by such wonderful people during this challenge.”

Participants jetted out on Boxing Day and reached the summit of the 5,895-metre-high peak to witness the first sunrise of 2016.

The group trekked for around 45 hours over six days, covering 40 miles.

Sarah Booth, one of the community nurses at Wheatfields Hospice, also took part.

She said: “Climbing Kilimanjaro was an incredible and tough experience, but spectacular and worth the challenge for the views above the clouds.

“At the times when I felt breathless due to the altitude it made me think that this is how some of my patients have to live every day.

“If you are thinking about doing this trek, I would say do it.

“We really appreciate all funds raised to help us continue caring for people in the community.”

Entries are now open for another Sue Ryder Kilimanjaro trek, which will be held later this year.

To get involved in the fundraiser or for more information, call 0113 203 3338 or visit the website below.