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Harrogate women to climb 'unreachable peak' for charity

Tuesday, 3 June 2025 08:14

The team of Harrogate ladies who will climb Mount Mulanje in Malawi.

A group of eight determined women from Harrogate are set to embark on an extraordinary challenge in a bid to raise £20,000 for charity.

They’ll attempt to climb to summit Sapitwa Peak on Mount Mulanje in Malawi - a formidable 3,000-metre climb dubbed the ‘unreachable peak.’

The group will take on the challenge on 21st June to fundraise for Open Arms Malawi, a Harrogate-based charity dedicated to supporting orphaned and vulnerable babies in Malawi.

Their ambitious fundraising target of £20,000 will provide vital nutrition, support, and resources to families caring for vulnerable infants, ensuring they can thrive in a nurturing home environment.

Claire Collins, CEO of Open Arms Malawi and one of the climbers, highlighted the significance of the challenge, stating:

“This year marks 25 years since Open Arms Malawi was founded in Harrogate.

“Back then a group of individuals from Ashville College got together in a local pub to see how they could support a small infant home caring for children orphaned by the AIDS crisis.

“No one could have predicted the huge impact that this partnership between Harrogate in the UK and Blantyre in Malawi would have and the thousands of families who would benefit over the years."

The team is made up of Alison Morris, Suzie Thomas, Lauren Randall, Liz Raper, Christina Driver, Claire Collins, Sarah-Jane Patrick and Louisa Fee.

Claire added:

“The work has adapted and evolved in line with the local needs in Malawi and it is always a pleasure to hear from students, groups and individuals who continue to visit our projects in Malawi and witness the impact firsthand.

“It is a real privilege to have such an amazing team of Harrogate ladies taking on the Mulanje challenge to mark this important milestone and help raise vital funds.”

To support the team and contribute to their fundraising efforts, visit: www.justgiving.com/team/mulanje

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