A determined team of staff and lecturers are preparing to take on an extraordinary challenge to raise funds for a much-loved children’s charity.

Over the next year, 22 participants from the Bersham Road site in Wrexham will attempt the 12 Mountains, 12 Months Challenge — conquering some of Wales’s most iconic peaks in support of Hope House/Tŷ Gobaith children’s hospices.

Led by Karl Jackson, Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology and Site Lead at Bersham Road, the group will climb more than 11.95 kilometres (39,189 feet) of mountain height — the equivalent altitude of a commercial airliner at cruising level.

Their goal is to raise at least £1,500 for Hope House/Tŷ Gobaith, which provides vital care and support to children with life-threatening conditions and their families across Shropshire, Cheshire, and Mid and North Wales.

“We’re incredibly proud to be taking on our biggest challenge yet as a team – 12 mountains in 12 months for Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith,” said Karl.

“It’s going to test us like never before, but we know every step will be worth it to support such amazing causes.

“Our goal is to raise at least £1,500 over the next year, and while the scenery will be breathtaking, the climbs themselves will be tough.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the staff and lecturers taking part, and together we’re determined to make a real difference.”

Having already tackled a number of tough adventures — including The Bigger Boat Challenge, the Welsh Three Peaks, the Crazy 7 for Stepping Stones North Wales, and the four-day Freezing Fingers expedition in the Rhinogydd mountain range — Karl says this will be their most ambitious effort yet.

The climbs will start with Cadair Idris, followed by Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Moel Siabod, Foel Fras, Carnedd Llewelyn, Arenig Fawr, Aran Fawddwy, Y Garn, Glyder Fawr, Elidir Fawr, Pen yr Ole Wen, and Pen y Fan.

Bethan Young, Area Fundraiser for Hope House/Tŷ Gobaith, said: “Karl and the team from the Bersham Road site are just fabulous.

“They always go the extra mile for us and this time are really pushing themselves higher and higher.

“12 mountains in 12 months is great going and to see so many of them in Wales is great too.

“Thanks so much to everybody involved and every penny you raise will go directly to the care and support of local children and families living with a life-threatening condition.”

Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith operate two hospices and 15 shops, relying on £7.5 million in fundraising each year to continue delivering their essential services.

Supporters can sponsor Karl and the team here: Karl Jackson is fundraising for Hope House & Ty Gobaith

For more information about Hope House/Tŷ Gobaith, visit www.hopehouse.org.uk.