We always knew that our medical team went the extra mile in ensuring that we meet patients wishes, but an intrepid St. Rocco's team recently took that to another level (literally!) by climbing England's highest peak - Scafell Pike - at the request of a patient.

Austin Guilfoyle, who sadly passed away during July, was a keen hiker who loved the Lake District. Knowing he would not be able to make one if his favourite walks up Scafell Pike again, Sergei Vasiljevs agreed to do it for him and take a picture of Austin to the top, so he could be their in spirit. Not wanting Sergei to tackle this alone his colleagues Vaughan Edge, Jane Isaac, Sandra Lee, Hannah Sparks and Susan Langton, as well as Marie Keenan from Warrington General hospital readily agreed to join him.

Longest route

Setting out from Langdale on Sunday 25th July, the weather was perfect for walking. They made the 6.9 mile walk to the 3189 foot summit in 5 hours. Coming down was a bit easier but still took 4 hours. The team were exhausted but exhilarated after the walk as Sergei explained, "It was an honour to do the walk for Austin as he was such a lovely guy. We knew he was with us all the way and this spurred us on when it got tough. We really wanted to celebrate and commeomrate his life with our efforts and taking his picture to the top was a fitting way to do this.

Despite the short notice, the team managed to also raise nearly £2000 in donations for their efforts.

Thank you to everyone who was involved or donated.