An intrepid team from a Morecambe-based charity has successfully trekked across Iceland raising more than £32,000 for children and young adults with disabilities.
The group from Unique Kidz & Co completed the charity's first ever overseas fundraising challenge, trekking 58km across dramatic volcanic landscapes over four days.
The Fire & Ice Trek saw the team battle some of the country's most challenging conditions, including freezing river crossings, climbing snowy mountains and navigating rugged lava fields, while camping in the Icelandic wilderness each night.
Founded in 2009 by two local mums, Jane Halpin and Denise Armer, Unique Kidz & Co supports around 200 children and young people with disabilities and their families through accessible clubs, holiday provision, young adult services, parent and carer support, and community projects.
The challenge marked a major milestone for the charity, opening the door to future overseas adventures while generating vital funds for its work across Morecambe and the surrounding areas.
"I honestly can't tell you what kind of challenge the Icelandic wilderness presented us with," said Jane.
"It exceeded anything we could have imagined. We faced snow, rain, hail, sunshine and gale-force winds, whilst we slipped, tripped and collected more than a few bruises along the way!"
Despite the physical challenge, Jane says reaching the finish line made every difficult moment worthwhile.
"Reaching the finish line after 58km of trekking was an incredibly emotional moment.
"Standing together, reflecting on what we'd achieved, there was a huge sense of pride.
"This was something none of us will ever forget.
"Unique Kidz & Co are very lucky to have each and every one of these trekkers supporting the work we do, and for that we are so grateful."
The challenge brought together nine people from across the local community, each with their own connection to Unique Kidz & Co.
Some were parents of young people that come to the charity, while others were representing local businesses that have supported its work for many years.
Before setting off, each trekker was given a handwritten letter from a young person at Unique Kidz & Co, with strict instructions not to open it until they were out on the trail.
The letters introduced the young people, shared a little about themselves and thanked the trekkers for taking on the challenge.
It was a powerful reminder of exactly who they were walking for, providing extra motivation during some of the toughest moments of the journey.
"When we first launched the Fire & Ice Trek, we knew it would be something special, but we never imagined the response we'd receive," said Chris Pilkington, the charity's Head of Fundraising.
"The trekkers have shown extraordinary commitment, not just during the four days in Iceland, but through months of fundraising, training walks and preparation.
"They have represented Unique Kidz & Co brilliantly.
"The Fire & Ice Trek was a major part of our fundraising calendar this year and represents the kind of opportunities we want to continue creating for our amazing supporters.
"Every pound raised from all our activities helps Unique Kidz & Co provide safe activities where children and young adults with disabilities can have fun, while parents and carers can step away knowing their child is in the right place."
Although the team has now returned home, fundraising is continuing, with the total expected to rise over the coming weeks.
Following the success of the Fire & Ice Trek, Unique Kidz & Co hopes to make overseas fundraising challenges a regular part of its events programme, giving more people the opportunity to push themselves while making a lasting difference to local families.
For more information about Unique Kidz & Co, or to support the team's fundraising, visit HERE.
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