INTREPID walkers battled through torrential rain to conquer the three highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales - and raise more than £40,000 for a York hospice.

More than 30 walkers took part in the UK Three Peaks challenge at the weekend to celebrate the life of Natalie Goulden, of Heworth, who died of cancer in June, aged 30.

They were raising funds for St Leonard’s Hospice, which gave her ‘wonderful care’ before her death.

They set off at 4.37pm on Saturday, scaling Ben Nevis in 3hrs 53 minutes, Scafell Pike in 3hrs 33 and Snowdon in 2hrs 52, and the bulk of the team finished at 4.17pm on Sunday, with 20 minutes to spare.

Natalie’s husband Stuart said the challenge – ‘the togetherness; the fundraising; the training; the ambition and against-the-odds hope of it all’ – meant so much to Natalie.

He said: "I know she would be so proud of everyone involved, whether they were one of the 30-odd walkers, the 10-strong support crew or the 1000+ donors.

“It was a real team effort. Not only did we conquer the three biggest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales in torrential downpours and 60mph winds, but with Gift Aid the group managed to raise over £40,000. Hopefully that figure keeps rising too.”

Hospice community fundraiser Helen Rook said: “We are overwhelmed by what Team Nat has achieved – both physically in tackling the three peaks, and in their fundraising for St Leonard’s.

“We are so grateful to everyone involved in raising such a phenomenal amount. They should all be proud that they faced the challenge with positivity and determination - and that they have done Natalie proud.”