NINE trekkers from Uttlesford flew thousands of miles to tackle the Great Wall of China to raise money for a local charity.

Stacy Owen - from Stansted - Mark Kempthorne, Colin Wells, Robert Bahr, Lorna McKenna, Roger Buckley, Jez Wilkinson, Caroline and Russell Waller all took part in the incredible journey across China all in aid of St Clare Hospice in Hastingwood.

After 14 months of planning, fundraising and rigorous training the group started their five day trek last month.

The hike crossed Mutianyu, Gubeiko, Jinshanling and Juyong Guan as the group walked the restored parts of the wall as well as the lesser visited areas where they had to negotiate centuries of deterioration.

For their efforts the group raised �50,000 for the hospice and to reward their success they enjoyed a day’s rest in Beijing before flying home.

Stacy said: “I thought the trek was amazing. I love to challenge myself so I thought trekking the Great Wall of China would be a great way to encourage people to donate to a great cause.

“I went away with strangers and came back with family. I would love to do it again!”

The money that the group raised for the hospice which will fund two weeks of specialist 24 hour inpatient care for eight patients at any one time. If you are inspired and want to take part in the hospice’s next Great Wall of China trek (October 8-16, 2011), e-mail fund@stclarehospice.org.uk or call 01279 773750.