Banner Jones staff step up for High Peak Trail challenge in support of Ashgate Hospice

Fourteen staff from law firm Banner Jones swapped their desks for walking boots on Saturday 22nd March, taking on the High Peak Trail Walk to raise funds for Ashgate Hospice.

Now a firm favourite in the Banner Jones calendar, the annual event saw the team join hundreds of walkers from across the region to tackle the scenic - and at times deceptively challenging - Derbyshire route, following the historic line of the former Cromford and High Peak Railway.

Participants gathered at Cromford Meadows before being transported to their chosen starting points, with route options including 17 miles, 11 miles and a shorter 3.5-mile walk. The Banner Jones team took on the 11-mile distance, enjoying the Derbyshire countryside along the way, with well-earned refreshments and support helping to keep everyone going.

With a mix of experienced walkers and a few discovering muscles they didn’t know they had, the trek brought plenty of memorable moments. From early enthusiasm and strong starts to the inevitable mid-walk snack stops and end-of-route sighs of relief, spirits remained high throughout - helped along by good company and some stunning views.

The effort was all in support of Ashgate Hospice, which provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care and support to people across North Derbyshire living with life-limiting illnesses.

Lynne Pope, Marketing Manager at Banner Jones, said: “It was a fantastic day and a real team effort. There were definitely a few sore legs by the end but it was all worth it. At a time when it has never been more important to support charities like Ashgate, we’re proud to play our part in raising funds and awareness. The hospice does such incredible work across our region, and it means a lot to be able to support them.”

The team has so far raised over £650, with the final fundraising total due to be announced by the firm over the coming days.