A group of pensioners from Ross-on-Wye, recently decided they were going to set themselves a new challenge.

They have decided to tackle the notorious Three Peaks, the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales in July.

For their final training exercise they will complete a sunset walk along the length of the Malvern. Hills. This will be followed by an overnight drive to Snowdon and then a sunrise ascent up the Pyg Track.

If they all make it back safely they hope to be home in time for lunch.

For the actual event, during the first weekend of July, the drivers (having already driven from Ross to Fort William) have 11 hours to drive from Ben Nevis to Snowdon via Scafell Pike. This will allow the walkers 13 hours to ascend and descend the Three Peaks.

A traffic jam or a strong headwind on the ascent can throw the timing out but the plan is to complete the challenge between 5pm on Saturday, July 2nd and 5pm on Sunday, July 3rd.

The intrepid pensioners would really like to talk to anyone who has recently completed the Three Peaks. Advice on mobile phone signals, parking places to unload, time allocation for ascending and descending, or any other information would be welcome. Anyone who can help should email [email protected] or telephone 01989 564536.

The group plan to take a copy of the Ross Gazette with them on their journey and they will photograph themselves at each mountain base and share the photo on the Ross Gazette Facebook page so readers can track their progress.

More importantly, they are also asking for help in raising funds for The Little Princess Trust, The Motor Neurone Disease Association and The Friends of St Mary’s Church, in Ross. If you can help, visit justgiving.com/teams/Ross-Pensioners