From bikers to hikers: Neath motorcyclists climb 3 peaks for Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice

In a remarkable display of determination and solidarity, a Welsh motorcycle club’s team of five members has conquered the challenging Welsh Three Peaks adventure, raising an impressive sum exceeding £1,500 for Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice.

The Welsh Three Peaks challenge involves conquering three iconic mountains: Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Cadair Idris, and Pen y Fan. While the team of bikers are typically known for their adventures on motorcycles, this time they chose to tackle the peaks on foot, relying on physical and mental fortitude to complete their journey.

The team from the Neath-based ‘Ride Club’ included Meriel East, a Partner at Hutchinson Thomas Solicitors who specialises in family, childcare and criminal law matters. The law firm, with offices in Neath and Swansea, has made a significant contribution to the total funds raised for Tŷ Hafan – a charity that provides comfort, care, and support to children with life-shortening conditions and their loved ones.

East and her team encountered a range of challenges throughout the expedition, from the breathtaking but demanding ascent of Yr Wyddfa, which began at dawn (4:22am), to the arduous climb up Cadair Idris, during which they encountered scorching heat and rocky terrain. Nevertheless, their determination and unwavering team spirit propelled them forward to complete the challenge.

Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice is an organisation that provides invaluable support and care to children with life-limiting conditions and their families from its hospice-base in Sully near Cardiff, and in communities across Wales. Its mission is to ensure that every moment matters, offering comfort, love, and assistance to children, young people, and their families when they need it most. Tŷ Hafan’s dedicated team of professionals provides specialised medical, emotional, and practical support, aiming to enhance the quality of life for these children and create lasting memories for their families. The hospice relies heavily on the generosity of individuals and businesses to continue their vital work and make a profound difference to the lives of those they serve.

Completing the Welsh Three Peaks challenge was not only a personal triumph for East and her Ride Club team but also a testament to their unwavering dedication to charitable causes. Their combined efforts have already raised over £1500, with additional contributions still pouring in.

In addition, Ride Club intend on continuing with its fundraising efforts, with a member currently driving to Prague to raise money for the Child Cancer and Leukaemia Group. Similarly, Hutchinson Thomas Solicitors, are dedicated to making a positive impact within the community by contributing to causes that provide essential support and care to those in need.

Meriel East, Partner at Hutchinson Thomas and Ride Club member, said:

“I am thrilled to have completed the Welsh Three Peaks challenge alongside my incredible team from Ride Club. As passionate motorcyclists, we usually conquer miles on our bikes, but this time, we embraced the physical and mental challenge of conquering these three magnificent peaks on foot. Of the three, Cadair Idris proved to be the most demanding, with scorching heat and daunting terrain, but the feeling of reaching all the summits was indescribable. Throughout the journey, we were motivated by the thought of supporting Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice, a cause that holds a special place in our hearts. I’m grateful to everyone who has contributed to our fundraising efforts, and I encourage others to join us in making a difference. Together, we can bring smiles and comfort to the children and families who rely on the charity’s invaluable services.”

To find out more about donating to Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice, visit the website www.tyhafan.org/