Richard takes up Ben Nevis challenge in memory of mum

A Chapelhall man is encouraging fellow Monklands residents to take part in this year’s 12th annual Ben Nevis challenge in aid of St Andrew’s Hospice.

Richard Trott was one of the first participants to register for this year’s event, which he is completing alongside wife Lana and their friends in memory of his late mother, Mary.

The popular fundraiser takes place on September 30 and will see participants tackle the 4411ft peak, supported by mountain rescue guides and the Airdrie hospice’s own team of experienced climbers.

Richard said: “My mum passed away in 2012 and spent her last few weeks at St Andrew’s Hospice; we can’t thank them enough for the care they gave her and the support they gave to me and my family.”

He has since taken on a series of fundraising challenges for the charity with his wife and friends, saying: “We’ve already tackled Ben Nevis, the West Highland Way, Muddy Muckers and It’s a Knockout.

“With our little boy Logan, who’s five, we’ve done five Santa dashes, which he loves to be a part of – it’s become a family Christmas tradition.

“My friend Martyn Stewart and I have done a sponsored shave of our hair and beards, and also have some other events planned including raffles and bake sales, and another member of our team is planning a charity night.”

The hospice’s Ben Nevis climb is being supported for a 10th year by Terex.

Site IT support engineer Mark Gillespie took part in the challenge two years ago, saying: “I‘ ve been keen to volunteer for cancer charities after losing my wife Debra to the illness in 2013.

“The whole day was very well planned, the hospice staff couldn’t have been more helpful – and the overwhelming sense of achievement I got when I reached the top was the highlight of the whole experience.”

Hospice fundraiser Katie Williamson said: “Our Ben Nevis challenge really is a memorable, fun weekend, and there is a fantastic sense of camaraderie between the participants.

“We depend on support from the public to help us continue to raise the funds needed to maintain our specialist care services; we have to raise £88,000 to help support up to 120 patients and family members who need us each week.”

For details on the Ben Nevis climb and to register, www. st- andrewshospice. com/ events/ or call 01236 766951.