Couple's mountain trek in support of children's charity

Battling extreme temperatures and torrential storms, Peter Olczak and Joanna Pawlak hiked along Eastern Europe’s Tatra Mountains to raise funds for The Principle Trust, a Skipton-based charity which provides free respite breaks to children who are underprivileged, disadvantaged, disabled, have life-limiting conditions, or who have experienced poverty, trauma or abuse.

The couple, both aged 42, took seven days to conquer nine summits in the mountain range which form a natural border between Poland and Slovakia.

Using chains for the steepest ascents, the pair scaled a total height of 30,000 feet, enduring blistering 30 degree heat for several days followed by subzero temperatures at the summit of Mount Rysy which stands 2503m above sea level.

The couple, who originate from Poland but met in Skipton, were inspired by the work of The Principle Trust; the charity has long-standing ties with Skipton based supplements manufacturer, The Principle Healthcare Group, where Joanna has worked for almost two decades.

Joanna said: "Although there were times when the weather and terrain slowed our progress we kept going, knowing we were helping disadvantaged, disabled and poorly children to escape their everyday troubles and create valuable, happy memories. We’re grateful to everyone who donated, especially Principle Healthcare who made a donation and supported us with frequent welfare checks.”

Since its launch in 2011, The Principle Trust has raised more than £1m and provided respite breaks for almost 5000 children (4290 underprivileged/ disadvantaged and 620 disabled). In response to the cost-of-living crisis, The Trust recently launched ‘Food for Families’, a £23,000 per annum initiative to provide an entire week’s supply of food and daily essentials for families taking a respite break with the charity.

Donations to Peter and Joanna’s fundraising page can be made at www.localgiving.org/fundraising/Principletrust/