Women climbers on track to raise £50,000

A TEAM of women from a Warrington-based soft drinks company has returned from the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro to news that they’re firmly on track to hit their £50,000 fundraising target for Warrington Youth Club (WYC).
The 11-strong group, led by Vimto chief executive Marnie Millard, has so far received £38,500 in donations, with the money earmarked to buy two mini buses for club use.
It was the second surprise for the team, after receiving a delivery of their own product from colleagues back home at the top of the mountain!
Following a gruelling five-day climb to the summit via the Rongai route, the team is confident additional funds can still be raised to guarantee transportation is secured.
The minibuses will allow children who live in areas with poor transportation links to take part in WYC activities.
To donate simply visit the group’s fundraising page The Vimto Kilimanjaro Adventure 2016 – http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/wycgirlstrekkili. Donations can also be made by texting VIMTO5 to give £5 or VIMTO10 for £10 to 70500.
Marnie Millard said: “We have all returned safe, in one piece and are delighted that so much money has been raised so far for WYC. The climb itself was extremely tough but we all supported each other throughout the trek, and the feeling we had when we reached the summit was unbelievable.
“We’re incredibly proud of our achievement and know that our efforts will contribute towards the great work that is done by Warrington Youth Club. “We always try to go above and beyond to help such a beneficial local charity.
“The aim now is to make sure we hit our £50,000 target, so we would greatly appreciate any further support the local community can offer, no matter how small.”
Dave McNicholl, chief executive of WYC, which supports underprivileged and disabled children in the Warrington area, added: “We’re immensely thankful for the effort that the Vimto team has spent in their mission to raise money for Warrington Youth Club.
“Once the target is achieved it will mean Vimto has raised close to £250,000 over the years. Not only have they supported us with fundraising but also through work experience opportunities and short-term employment.
“One of the biggest barriers to accessing social opportunities that children and young people identify through every consultation is a lack of transport.
“The two new vehicles will allow Warrington Youth Club to reach hundreds of children and young people who otherwise would be unable to attend the services provided by the Youth Club.”