STAFF and students from Rainford High recently set out to summit the three highest mountains across the UK in just 24 hours. 

On Saturday, June 18, eleven Duke of Edinburgh students began the 312-mile challenge by hiking 1345m up Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles.

Reaching the top more than four hours later, the weary hikers then almost immediately set off for Scafell Pike in Cumbria and powered to the top in the early hours of the morning.

Raising money for school improvements and community projects across Rainford, the group then raced towards Mount Snowdon, in Snowdonia National Park in Wales. 

Taking the Miners’ Track from Pen Y Pas at around 12.30pm on Sunday, June 19, the dedicated group reached the summit around four hours later to tick off one of the country's toughest challenges in less than a day.

St Helens Star: The students reached the summit of Snowdon in less than 24 hoursThe students reached the summit of Snowdon in less than 24 hours

Mr Matthew Blackwell, one of the teachers leading the way, said: “I am full of pride for our amazing group of students and staff who took part in the Three Peaks Challenge. Climbing one mountain is difficult enough but to climb three in one weekend is no mean feat!  

"During every trek we were faced with difficulties, but we soldiered on and managed to complete all three mountains in good time. 

"A huge thank you to everyone who supported us.”  

The Three Peaks challenge formed part of a fundraising campaign by the school in a bid to raise £15,000 for improvements in key areas of the school as well as funding future Duke of Edinburgh expedition trips. 

Local community projects, charities and food banks will also receive donations from the student's fundraising, which continues with a sponsored row from Rainford to Norway from Monday, July 4 - Friday, July 8, totalling a distance of 1148km.

Principal, Ian Young, added: “I couldn’t be prouder of this dedicated group of students and staff - I am completely in awe of them! Not only have they successfully achieved the Three Peaks Challenge, but they are also helping us meet our ambitious fundraising target. Well done to all involved.” 

To donate to the student's fundraising efforts, visit this link.