A group of East Renfrewshire Council (ERC) workers are aiming to conquer the UK’s highest peak in a bid to raise cash for a cause close to their hearts.
They were inspired to climb Ben Nevis in support of Prostate Cancer Research after one of their colleagues, who was diagnosed with the disease, had to retire due to ill health.
The workmates will scale the towering giant, which stands 1,345 metres (4,413 ft) above sea level, on May 17.
Roads worker Andy Shaw told the Barrhead News: “As a group, we are of different ages but have become aware that prostate cancer can strike us at any time.
“Encouraged by this, I raised nearly £500 by walking 60 miles after work in November.
"I enjoyed doing it as it made me feel good to help out.
“A few of the lads would tell me that they wished that they could do something too and this gave me the idea to get a group together to do something a bit more challenging.
“Ben Nevis was suggested as it is challenging but I think that if we pull together we can make it.
“ERC have been very supportive with this. It has given the workforce a feel good factor
So far 18 colleagues have committed to taking on the challenge and a fundraising page has been set up which has already coined in £1,000 which Andy said they are very grateful for.
The majority of those participating work in the roads department, but others from other departments have also joined.
The group has mixed experience, from total novices to those who have climbed a few Munros.
As the majority are road workers, the plan is to take up a stop and go board to the top as symbolic gesture to reinforce their slogan of ‘Stop and go get checked for prostate cancer.”
They will even have a few cone hats to wear on the day.
“I have contacted Prostrate Cancer Research and they have provided us with some materials including flags and collecting cans," added Andy who is 56 and lives in Paisley.
"Our Just Giving page has been set up so all the money raised will go directly to them.
“We are excited about the challenge and looking forward to raising money for a good cause and we are happy for anyone to join us from any department.
"A WhatsApp group “the hillbillies “ has been set up which we use for planning practice hikes and sharing hillwalking tips and advice.
“We work outside in all weathers day and night so for the lads to give up their spare time for this challenge it is really encouraging.
"We are a close group and this is great for not only our camaraderie but our personal good health.
“We also hope this highlights a serious concern and more men stop, think and go forward for a check up.”
An ERC spokesperson said: “We were all saddened to hear about our colleague’s recent ill health retirement, which has inspired the creation of the ‘Ben Nevis STOP and GO’ group, led by Andy Shaw.
“Every day our colleagues embody our organisational values of kindness, ambition and trust so seeing the number of colleagues signing up to take part in this challenge who are motivated to raise vital funds and awareness for Prostate Cancer Research is absolutely testament to this.
“Everyone at ERC is behind all of you every step of the way and will be cheering you on during the challenge on May 17. Good luck.”
To join the group or support them on their challenge, contact Andy Shaw or James Macpherson at the roads department.
To donate click HERE.
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