Saharan trek raises £137,000

A group of Sussex fundraisers have completed a four-day trek in the Sahara desert and have raised more than £137,000 so far for St Catherine’s Hospice.

Some 45 supporters embarked on the challenge for terminally ill people and to help raise money to build the new hospice at Pease Pottage.

Michaela Clements, fundraising manager at St Catherine’s, was with the trekkers in the Sahara.

She said: “I’ve always known our community of St Catherine’s supporters are brilliant.

“As I trekked across the largest hot desert in the world, I watched people push themselves out of their comfort zones to raise money for our hospice.

“Their dedication to supporting others in their community is amazing.”

Michaela said many of the trekkers had experienced the hospice’s care personally and are committed to making sure more families can have expert help and support.

“The Sahara was stunning, it was a very special trip,” she said.

The trekkers were split into two groups of 23 and 22 and travelled across ancient dried-up riverbeds and vast sun-baked plains. They also spent the night sleeping under the stars.

The bespoke trek is the third overseas adventure that St Catherine’s has hosted.

People can still donate at www.justgiving.com/ campaign/stchsahara2020.