A GROUP of 12 friends from Winsford have raised more than £5,500 for mental health charity MIND after completing the Three Peaks challenge in memory of their friend who took his own life.
The group completed the challenge on August 11 and 12 to mark the ten year anniversary of their 'kind and loving' friend, Andy Washington’s, death.
Andy took his own life after experiencing mental health problems and all money raised from the challenge is being donated to mental health charity, MIND.
Friend of Andy, Dave Houston, 37, who completed the challenge said: “We all know how proud Andy would have been of all of us. He struggled with mental health and unfortunately did not get the help he needed.
“That is why we want to raise awareness about charities that are out there to help those that are struggling and need somewhere to turn to.
“He is still well and truly missed by all of us.”
He described Andy, who was 25 when he died, as a very athletic and competitive person, who always wanted to be the best at everything he did and had a lot of love for his friends.
The aim of the challenge is to climb the three tallest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours.
The group walked a total of 23 miles and faced a 3,064m ascent whilst tackling the peaks of Ben Nevis, Scarfell Pike and Snowdon.
Due to traffic conditions, the team fell short of reaching their 24 hour goal but Andy’s mum, sister, and daughter joined the group to provide a boost of encouragement for the final ascent at Snowdon.
The team reached the descent of Snowdon at 6.25pm - 25-and-a-half hours after they started climbing Ben Nevis.
Dave said: “I have to say this is the hardest thing I have ever done in my life but I am incredibly proud of everybody that has gotten involved and managing to raise over £5,500 for MIND makes it all worth it.
“It’s an incredible charity that can help you to understand what you are feeling and why you are feeling this way, they provide support for all that are dealing with mental health issues including under 18s and you can even talk to them if you are concerned about others.”
If you are struggling with your mental health, resources are available on MIND’s website mind.org.uk or you can contact Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123.
If you would like to donate to the group's fundraiser then you can do so here justgiving.com/fundraising/Washy1.
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