LAST week’s bitter snow storms were welcomed by a pair of Gaunless Valley women who are preparing for a freezing survival challenge in aid of charity.
Ros Seagrave and Sabrina Parker need to raise £7,600 before December to achieve their dream of an arctic challenge in March next year.
Ms Seagrave said: “We are taking part in a sponsored survival week in Sweden to raise money for Butterwick Hospice.
“This involves making our own shelter, surviving outside in freezing temperatures from zero to minus 30 degrees, melting snow to drink and surviving on basic rations.”
They will spend the first few days in a cabin without electricity or running water before moving into an igloo-like shelter that they will have to make themselves. They are also looking forward to a sleigh ride with huskies.
Ms Parker said: “We might get to see the Northern Lights.”
The pair have already raised about £1,250 towards their target, having raised £400 through a bag pack at an M&S store. They are also planning a charity night at Tindale Workingman’s Club, as well as a coffee morning at Evenwood’s Randolph Centre.
An application has been made for the pair to carry out a street collection in Durham City.
When the weather gets warmer they want to complete a Coast-to-Coast cycle ride over two days.
The idea for the arctic survival week was suggested by hospice organisers who have already benefited substantially from the pair’s adventurous spirit. During the past 18 months they have raised cash for the charity through events such as spending a night in makeshift shelters in Hamsterley Forest, followed by a muddy boot camp.
They also dressed up as super heroes for the Zombie Run through the forest.
Ms Parker said: “We were the first ladies over the line, and we were second overall.”
They also dressed up as Santa for an event in the forest in the Christmas period.
Ms Sseagrave said: “It got cancelled but we did it any way.”
Ms Parker added: “We love a challenge and we are always doing silly things.”
The pair are enjoying good support from local businesses but still need more for their charity events. Ms Seagrave said: “We are desperate for anything to raffle extra.”
People can also help by having a bake sale in their office and the pair will supply the cakes.
Anyone who can help can contact Ms Seagrave by email rosseagrave@aol.com.
