Harrogate family to climb Kilimanjaro to raise money for local charity

A Harrogate family is preparing to climb Africa’s highest mountain in aid of a local charity.

Richard Pughe, who is a partner at Begbies Traynor Group, will take on the 19,340 ft climb next February alongside his wife Nikki Sutcliffe, his son and stepson, as well as his friend.

The family visited Artizan Café in Harrogate, which employs and supports 23 people with various disabilities, and was inspired by its “fantastic work”.

They then chose to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for Artizan International.

Mr Pughe said:

“The passion and joy with which both the trainees and trainers work is incredible.

“They’re making a tremendous difference to people’s lives, both here in Harrogate with their café and creative workshop and through projects in Ecuador and Peru.

“We were looking to take on a fundraising challenge to mark a few different significant birthdays that are happening next year in our family, and we were so impressed by Artizan International that we wanted to help them.”

The family is training for the eight-day expedition across the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, as well as hiking in the French Alps this summer.

They hope to raise at least £1,500 for the charity.

Mr Pughe added:

“Without doubt, coping with the altitude and low oxygen levels will be the most challenging aspect of the climb.

“We are doing as many high-level walks as we can and all trying to increase our fitness in preparation for February’s trip.

“We want to raise as much money as possible for Artizan International and it would be brilliant if our expedition inspires people to sponsor us.”

The charity was launched in Harrogate in 2013 after founder, Susie Hart MBE, set up a social centre in Tanzania to support and employ local people with disabilities.

Ms Hart also said:

“We’re tremendously grateful to Richard, Nikki and family for choosing to support our work with differently-abled people locally and overseas in this way and the funds they raise will make a huge difference.

“We’ll be able to provide training and support that’s literally life-changing, for many more people with disabilities, thanks to their support. We’ll be cheering them on, all the way.”

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