Gardener at Newport's Combat Stress tackles 100,000ft charity challenge

Peter Smith, gardener at Combat Stress’ Audley Court treatment centre in Newport has set himself the challenge of climbing 100,000ft to commemorate the charity’s milestone.

Since January, Peter and his Springer Spaniel Ruby have been hiking up hills and mountains as he aims to reach his target, which is more than three times the height of Mt Everest.

The idea for the challenge came about one evening when he was sat in a pub with his friends.

Having worked for Combat Stress since 2018, he wanted to combine a fundraising challenge with recognition of the charity marking its 100th anniversary this year.

Combat Stress, the UK’s leading mental health charity for veterans, was founded after the First World War to care for the servicemen who returned home with shell shock.

Today Combat Stress provides a range of free services at Audley Court including outpatient programmes, occupational therapy, peer support and a substance misuse service.

Exceeded

On March 31, Peter reached the halfway point of his challenge when he got to the top of The Wrekin with colleagues from Audley Court.

The team of eight, plus seven dogs, hiked the 1,335ft in an hour to cheer Peter on as he clocked up 50,000ft.

Peter said: “The support I’ve received from my colleagues has been great. They’ve put up a large mountain target poster in reception showing my progress day to day. I’ve already exceeded my original fundraising target of £500.

“I try to get out walking every day and I think I’ve only missed about three days since starting in January. I don’t feel right if I miss a walk and, on those occasions, Ruby lets me know how she feels by acting like a bottle of pop in the evenings.

“Through all the walking I’ve met loads of really interesting people, and I’ve witnessed the incredible variations in the weather – from arctic blizzards to baking hot sunshine and rainbows. I’m thoroughly enjoying this challenge – I don’t know what I’ll do when it ends.”

Rosie Gibbons, Regional Fundraiser for Combat Stress, said: “Peter is passionate about raising the awareness of Combat Stress locally. Working for the charity, he’s very aware of the amazing work and care we provide to veterans.

“I want to say a huge thank you to him for his efforts. The money he raises will help us to continue being there for every veteran who needs our support.”

Anyone who would like to support Peter’s challenge, can donate at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/peter-smith130.