A TEAM of 10 intrepid fundraisers have trekked and canoed across Dartmoor’s rugged terrain and wild rivers, together raising £5,500 for Prospect Hospice.

The charity’s Source to Sea challenge saw the group trek 25 miles over two days, crossing open moorland, climbing steep valleys and riversides, through knee high bracken and dense woodlands. On the final day, they collected canoes for an 11-mile paddle down the River Dart to Dartmouth Harbour.

Julie Box, from Swindon, who took part in the trip, said: “I wanted to support Prospect Hospice because they provide care tailored to the individual and, although the reason people attend the hospice is sad, it is a very positive place.”

Although the team were from various walks of life, they quickly became firm friends, and are already planning a future trip together.

Paul Bassett, from Swindon, said: “The trek across Dartmoor was spectacular, the landscape and wildlife were beautiful. Some found going up the hills a little challenging, but we all worked as a team, encouraging and helping anyone who needed it.

“We also saw the most incredible lightning storm. It started shortly after midnight and last for over four hours, with biblical rain, hail and wind. We were all a little apprehensive as to what the next morning would bring!”

Georgia Wakely, from Swindon, added: “This trip has inspired me to take on more fundraising challenges. It was such a great way to make more friends and create memories!”

Louise Brooks, from the fundraising team at Prospect Hospice, thanked the group, saying: “We’re so grateful to the whole group for raising such a fantastic amount of money and are so pleased that they had a brilliant time. They money they’ve raised will help us to continue to provide care to patients and support to their families and carers, both at the hospice and in the community.”

This was a bespoke challenge, created for Prospect Hospice supporters; each participant paid a £50 registration fee and were asked to raise a minimum sponsorship target of £400. Anyone who is interested in taking part in the event next year should contact the hospice’s fundraising team on fundraisingandevents@prospect-hospice.net or call 01793 816161.

Details of Prospect Hospice’s fundraising events programme can be found at www.prospect-hospice.net.