Team trek Arctic Circle for bereavement charity

Shariqua Ahmed
News imageSue Ryder Annette Mawby, a woman wearing green glasses and standing on snow while taking a selfie - with more people seen in the background of her picture.Sue Ryder
Whittlesey's "Arctic Angels" trekked across Finland in March

Six intrepid fundraisers have taken part in a trekking challenge across frozen lakes in sub-zero temperatures to raise money for the bereavement support charity, Sue Ryder.

Whittlesey's "Arctic Angels", from across Peterborough and Fenland, travelled to the Arctic Circle and trekked across Finland to raise about £23,000.

They described it as a "once-in-a-lifetime challenge", which involved snowshoe trekking through frozen forests and nights in remote wilderness cabins.

Annette Mawby, regional fundraiser at Peterborough's Thorpe Hall Hospice, and one of the participants, said: "It felt perfect and terrifying."

"When I joined Sue Ryder, I knew I wanted to do something bold, something that would inspire others," she added.

News imageSue Ryder The group of people with a man in the left and all the rest women, wearing blue Sue Ryder T-shirts, smiling for the camera.Sue Ryder
The group of fundraisers includes Reece Trott, Ahslea Mawby, Sarah Andrews, Annette Mawby, Jessica Scott and Victoria Marshall

The team also organised bake sales, yard sales, wreath-making workshops and a large winter ball, to help raise funds for the challenge.

Victoria Marshall described the challenge as "unforgettable".

"Upon arrival, I was like Bambi on ice and seriously wondered if I'd get through day one," she said.

"I've never laughed so hard or cried so many tears. I will forever be changed for the better."

Despite the physical demands, team members said the sense of unity carried them through the toughest moments.

Mawby added: "This challenge pushed me in ways I never imagined, but it also showed me the power of people coming together.

"The support from our community, the strength of our team, and the moments we shared out there, it's something I'll carry with me forever."

Do you have a story suggestion for Peterborough? Contact us below.

Follow Peterborough news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.

Related internet links