ADVENTURERS covered themselves in mud and glory as they tackled a filthy challenge and raised thousands in aid of an important Colchester charity.
The Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation, which is based in West Bergholt, was founded in February 2014 in memory of Tom Bowdidge.
The 19-year-old had died four months earlier after tragically losing his battle with Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumour and extensive peritoneal disease.
Since then his family and the non-profit organisation’s supporters have dedicated themselves to raising awareness and vital funding.
In the past, for example, the charity has helped pay for facilities at Colchester Hospital which are specifically designed to accommodate young people with cancer.
The most recent fundraiser came in the form of a mud race which saw dozens of daredevils swim through mud rivers and brave a trip on a deathslide.
Nearly 40 people took part in the assault course which took place at Wild Forest Races, in Kelvedon Hatch, raising more than £4,500 for the charity.
Nikki Bowdidge, chief executive officer and founder of the Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation, said the day was a resounding success and one which Tom would have loved.
He said: “I have to say it did make me laugh to see these amazing people turning up in their pristine white Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation T-shirts only to be entirely covered in thick mud by the end.
“It was fantastic and they all absolutely loved it.
“I think the deathslide was a favourite for most people because they ended up in this lake of mud, but they also had to avoid the drop on the ninja rings and have a go on zip lines.
“It was by far the most disgustingly muddy course I have ever seen. Tom would have loved it.
“I must say a big thanks to everyone who took part and raised so much money for teenagers and young people with cancer.
“Watch out for next year’s event, we’ll be announcing details soon.”
To sign up to the Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation’s Individual Giving Campaign or to find out more information visit tombowdidgefoundation.org.
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