A team of dedicated opticians from Ripon Specsavers have raised over £2,000 - quadruple their initial goal – after walking the 49-mile Ripon Loop.
Taking place last month, the ramblers completed the trail in 23.5 hours, raising £1,400 for Cancer Research UK and £1,023 for Vision Care for Homeless People.
They took on the challenge after a member’s mum passed away after being diagnosed with cancer, wanting to raise donations for the important work Cancer Research UK provides.
Vision Care for Homeless People is also close to the heart of Ripon Specsavers, with the team firm believers that everyone should have access to eyecare.
Alison Lee, manager and dispensing optician at Specsavers Ripon, said:
"It was an incredible 24 hours and undeniably challenging – blisters and shin splints made the last few miles feel like forever.
"However, we did it, and I’m unbelievably proud of the whole team, whose determination and spirit got us all to the finish line – our store."
Alison added:
"I can’t believe we managed to double our initial target of £500 per charity. It’s an incredible achievement and knowing it’s going towards vital work to help others is a wonderful feeling.
"I’m sure my mum, whose memory I was walking on behalf of for Cancer Research UK, would’ve been delighted with what we accomplished this weekend.
"We’re so grateful to everyone in the community who supported us through donations, words of encouragement, and those who walked with us in solidarity for the final 14 miles – and especially Katherine’s dad who greeted us with a much-needed cuppa at the Druid’s Temple."
Throughout the route, they were supported by friends, family and Frank (the Specsavers Cockapoo) who provided them with much-needed encouragement to push through.
As they approached the Ripon store on Market Square they were welcomed with clapping and cheering from colleagues and customers, where they were awarded the official Ripon Rowel award, which marked the end of their challenge.
If you’d like to show your support to the team at Ripon Specsavers, donations are still welcomed via the link to their Just Giving page, here: www.justgiving.com/team/specsavers-ripon
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