A GROUP of eight friends are about to embark on one of the toughest walking challenges and need more fundraising to spur them on.

A GROUP of eight friends are about to embark on one of the toughest walking challenges and need more fundraising to spur them on.

The team decided to attempt the famous three peaks challenge-which involves climbing the highest mountains of England, Scotland and Wales in 24 hours-to raise money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance. They are due to set off this Saturday.

They were inspired to do something for the charity after hearing about its involvement in helping Ipswich mother Lisa Holmes when she was injured in a bus crash earlier this year.

Although she was not taken away by the air ambulance, the crew were at the scene and provided specialist paramedic assistance. Mrs Holmes spent four months in hospital after suffering serious injuries but is now at home recovering well.

Those taking part in the trek are Matt Watkins, Andy Hollis, Sam Richardson, John-Paul McManus, Matt Richardson, Nick Richardson, Andrew Smallwood and James Bass.

Nick Richardson, who helped to organise the event, said: “I rounded up a group to begin training and to complete one of the most gruelling one-day events available in the country.

“We are eight office 'bods' with very little experience of anything like climbing mountains in the whole group. We have all put in a number of hours/days training and are confident of finishing within the 24 hours.

“After seeing the story about Lisa, we wanted to do something to help. The air ambulance needs all the funds it can get.”

To support their fundraising event or to find out more information, visit www.switchingthepeaks.co.uk.

Have you been inspired to raise money for a charity after a story you've read? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.