FIVE intrepid Colchester adventurers took on an arduous challenge to raise much needed funds for a men’s mental health charity.
Nick Chisnall, his son Josiah Chisnall and church friends Jon Kidd, Luke Harrison and Jay Yu, took on the Three Peaks Challenge.
The group of explorers, brought together by Nick, climbed Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon within 24 hours.
They tackled the mountains to raise funds for CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) and support the organisation’s efforts in raising awareness for men’s mental health.
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Nick said: “I basically organised it because sadly we’ve known men over the years with mental health issues who are sadly not with us anymore.
“I thought, ‘let’s do something about it'. We spent a year training for it at a local gym, planned the trip and went to Brecon Beacons and did a trial run. We went for it and smashed it.”
While Nick and the others have now completed the challenge, it was not without its fair share of obstacles.
He added: “We did Ben Nevis, climbed to the top in three hours. We finished Ben Nevis in five hours 15 minutes.
“Scafell Pike, there were treacherous weather conditions. It’s quite perilous – people are slipping, injured, getting blown over, it was dark. It was quite scary.
“It was a really good experience, challenging. I think we’ve raised more than £1,200 already and the fundraising’s still going on.”
The group’s fundraising page will remain active until September 9.
“The challenge was really gruelling and really tested our determination, grit and resolve," Nick said.
"I just want to impress upon men needing to support each other with mental health, be open and chat to people if they are struggling.”
This is not the first time Colchester residents have tackled the Three Peaks Challenge.
In 2020, former footballer Liam Joyce was among a group of nine men who took on the challenge.
Liam had set up the group I Hear You to provide help and reduce the stigma of mental health in grassroots football.
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