‘Boulby Beasts’ tackle tough challenge in charity trek

A determined group of staff from ICL Boulby has met the challenge of what is regarded as one of the UK’s toughest endurance walks and raised funds for two vital charities.

Steve Riddiough, Glen Collins, Colin Steel and Scott Garnett, with support from communications staff Katie Robinson and David Adams, were competing in the Cateran Yomp trek which involves walking 54 miles within 24 hours across the hills and glens of Perthshire. In total over 1,200 walkers from across the globe raised £300,000 for this, the 12th Yomp.

The triumphant Boulby Beasts team, from left to right. Katie Robinson, Scott Garnett, Steve Riddiough, Colin Steel, Glen Collins and David Adams.

Billing themselves as the Boulby Beasts, the team raised a total of over £2,700 for the main beneficiary of the event, ABF The Soldiers Charity which provides support for soldiers, veterans and their families. Their efforts were boosted by ICL Boulby matching their total with a donation to the Great North Ambulance.

Says ICL Boulby’s Communications Manager Katie Robinson “The Yomp itself is no easy feat, with treacherous terrain, unpredictable weather, and the constant challenge of fatigue. But the Beasts were undeterred and worked together to push through the pain and exhaustion…and the blisters!

Left to right: Steve, Glen, Scott and Colin all enjoying a well-deserved ice cream at one of the water stops.

“We began our day at 3am on Saturday morning, and the Yomp officially started at 6am, We didn’t stop until 3am the following morning. Needless to say, everyone was absolutely exhausted but also immensely proud to have contributed to two such great causes. I think it also underlines the great sense of camaraderie at Boulby, as well as the power of teamwork.”

The team was grateful for support from sponsors including Champions, Branston Ltd, New Forest Fruit Co Ltd and the Caswell Group.