​Sunderland consultancy team climbs to fundraising success

Fundraisers from the Sunderland-based firm, Identity Consult, have raised over £900 for the Stroke Association by completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.

A group of 11 staff members took on the gruelling 24 mile, 5,200ft route after choosing the Stroke Association as their charity of the year, after the company’s Managing Director had a stroke.

Staff from the cost management and project management consultancy were inspired to tackle the climb after Managing Director, David Dent, had a stroke in January this year. He is now receiving physiotherapy at home and recovering well.

Alistair Henderson, Senior Consultant at Identity Consult, said: “David’s stroke happened completely out of the blue and made us all realise that a stroke can happen to anyone at any time. We’re so pleased he’s making a good recovery and that’s why we’ve chosen the Stroke Association as our charity of the year. We’re determined to do our bit to help others affected by stoke to get the support they need.

“There were 11 of us who took part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, from experienced walkers to relative novices, and everyone did extremely well. The weather was changeable but fortunately relatively kind, although the muddy ground conditions made it tough in places. We completed the 24 mile route in 11 hours, comfortably under the 12 hour challenge time. The climbs were challenging, especially Ingleborough, and the descents were tough on our knees, but everyone’s spirits were high and it was well worth it for such a good cause!”

Dave Shearer, Community and Events Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 1.2 million people across the UK living with the devastating impact of stroke it is vital that we have people like the team from Identity Consult to raise funds and help us conquer stroke. We’re really grateful to them for choosing us as their charity of the year and for all their ongoing support. The money raised will help the charity fund vital research, support people affected and prevent stroke.”

To sponsor the Identity Consult team, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/icytp. For more information about stroke, contact the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.