Atrocious weather turned an overnight Mount Snowdon climb into an ordeal for hardy fundraisers.
The 40-strong party from East Cheshire Hospice battled against wind and rain during the nine-mile trek.
Their bravery was rewarded by raising almost £25,000 for the charity.
At 68, grandfather John Wilkinson was one of the oldest walkers, raising more than £1,700.
The retired policeman said: “It was gruelling. You couldn’t see in front of you.
“It was foggy, wet and miserable but good fun despite the weather.
“The day before was glorious. My wife Sandra and I spent the weekend in our motor home in Snowdonia, but I could hardly lift my leg over my bike cycling back after the walk.”
John was making a sentimental return to Snowdon some 51 years after his last visit as a police cadet.
Customers at the charity’s shops put donations in collections tins. John volunteers at the Thornton Square branch and collects furniture for the Hospice.
He said: “I had two back teeth out on the Monday and played football a couple of nights later so I’m shattered.”
Corporate fundraiser Luke Oldham was among Hospice representatives who took part.
He said: “It was incredibly tough and harder than we expected. We set off about 1.30 am and the lack of sleep and the hour made it even harder.
“It was wet and windy, but everyone completed the challenge guided by experienced mountain leaders.
“They kept spirits up and made sure everyone made it. The journey took walkers between six and seven hours.
“I was touched by everyone’s resolve. It wasn’t easy but no one thought about giving up even though they were struggling.
“Most people had some connection to the Hospice and a reason to be there. We are so grateful they dug deep to do it.”
Some 11 charities took part with the Hospice team the biggest by far among 140 walkers.
Health care assistant Caroline Allen was one of the nursing staff involved.
Caroline said: “Conditions couldn’t have been much worse.
“We didn’t see the sun rise. In fact, we didn’t see a thing until we got to the bottom even though it was daylight.
“However, we kept each other going and the team spirit was amazing. All I can say is we certainly earned every penny of our sponsorship!”
