Three mums took on Mount Etna (From This is Hampshire)

Women raising money for Basingstoke hospice

11:00am Monday 22nd October 2012 in News By Helen Morton

THREE mums have returned triumphant from the top of Mount Etna in Italy, having taken on a five-day challenge in support of a Basingstoke hospice.

Justine Thain, of Heath End Road, Baughurst, Karen Edwards, of Church Road, Tadley, and Dawn Hauge-Brown, of Woodlands Road, Baughurst, who are all in their 40s, trekked up to a crater on Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe.

The intrepid trio have so far raised more than £5,300 for St Michael’s Hospice, in Aldermas-ton Road.

Justine said: “We came back nursing blisters, aches and pains. The challenge was far tougher than we expected, and it was physically very challenging.

“The sheer heat we were walking in, and the amount of kit we had to carry on our backs, made it very tough going, but it was an amazing feeling to know that we had done it.”

The women were sponsored by their families and friends and held extra fundraising activities such as bag packs and discos to exceed their target of £4,500.

Justine said: “We are so grateful to everyone who sponsored us.

“People who didn’t even know us, friends of friends, ended up donating and we’re really grateful for everyone’s support.”