TWO women are preparing for the challenge of a lifetime – climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania for charity.
Jill Cox, who lives in Frome, and her work colleague from Mulberry, Emma Holcombe, will be tackling the highest mountain in Africa in August, raising money for the local charity, Time is Precious, and the cardiology department at Bath Royal United Hospital.
Jill said, “Emma and I both completed the Three Peaks challenge in 2015, with a group from Mulberry and raised money for Jessie May Children’s Hospice at Home. We so enjoyed the experience and raising money for a worthwhile charity, that when I lost my dad early last year and I wanted to raise funds for the cardiology department in Bath RUH, we discussed Kilimanjaro as a challenge, and felt we could raise a lot of money with such a huge challenge.
“Mulberry’s charity of the year is Time is Precious, which helps terminally ill children and their families, so we were more than happy to fundraise for this amazing charity too.
“We are both very excited about climbing Kilimanjaro and cannot believe it is actually going to happen, and the thought of the money we will raise for charity is so exciting.”
In the lead-up to the event, the pair are busy fundraising, trying to reach their target of £8,200.
“We have run various events so far and have more planned for the next couple of months,” explained Jill. “We are currently running a 100-prize raffle to be drawn this Friday, 16th March, in The Vobster Inn in the evening. We are still looking for prizes please and tickets can be purchased at £1 each, or £5 a book, available from myself or on Facebook via messenger.
“We held a cake sale at the Bath RUH atrium in February and are due to hold another couple of sales this Friday, 16th March, and then the 20th April. If anyone is able to make cakes or assist with ingredients, that would be really helpful.
“We held a 5K fun run and walk in February, starting at, and ending in the Centurion Hotel, Midsomer Norton, who kindly supported having us there, and we are due to have another one on 6th April.
“The Frome Football Club is booked for Saturday 19th May for a band night. I am looking for bands for that night, so if anyone is available or has any contacts, please let me know asap.”
To donate, visit: http:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/MulberryKilimanjaro
