THREE work colleagues have completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge to raise £761 for Malton Hospital in memory of a friend.

Zoe Vitty, Andrew Peacock and Antony Croser, who work for the North Yorkshire County Council deprivation of liberty, safeguards and business support teams at Ryedale House in Malton, undertook the challenge in memory of friend and colleague Brian Carter.

Brian, who was a telecare co-ordinator for the area, died in September in Malton Hospital after a battle with cancer.

The team conquered two of the peaks, Ingleborough (723 metres) and Whernside (736 metres) on Friday, September 16, but unfortunately, due to injury, they were unable to complete the route on the Saturday. Undeterred, they returned last month to complete the final 10 miles from Ribblehead to Horton-in-Ribblesdale via the third peak, Pen-y-Ghent (694 metres).

Zoe said: “This really was a challenge for one novice hill walker and two novice walkers, but one which we took in our stride.”

Kevin Cruise, a friend and colleague who acted as trainer, said: “This was a fantastic effort by all those involved in the challenge.

“The money will go to a worthy cause and one which looked after Brian with care and compassion in his final precious days.’’

The £761 was donated to Malton Hospital League of Friends towards improving the garden and outside space at the hospital.

The trio said they would like to thank their sponsors and colleagues who supported them through the challenging experience.

Antony said: “We would like to thank everyone for their support. The walk will live long in the memory for all the right reasons, especially in raising funds in memory of a much-thought-of work colleague for our much appreciated local hospital.’’