Swindon & Wiltshire News
Trio of Swindon businessmen climb to dizzying heights for charity
Three intrepid Swindon businessmen will be scaling the heights of Kilimanjaro next week to raise money for one of the town’s charities.
The trio – Lee Breakspeare, Haydn Beer, and Paul King – will spend more than a week in Africa, from January 28, where they hope to conquer the 5,895m peak in support of TWIGS, the community garden-based charity which helps people with mental health, drug and alcohol related problems.
Lee, an electrician and property developer, said he had a passion to see the world, especially paths less trodden. He said: “I think that mental health issues are too often overlooked and under-supported, so this trek is a small way in which I can help.”
Hadyn, owner and partner of BLB Kilminster Beer construction and property consultants, is a keen sportsman and a coach for youth football. He said: “Kili is without doubt my greatest challenge and as current chair of the Rotary Club of Swindon’s community service committee I am delighted to support TWIGS, a wonderful local community charity.”
Paul, a director of Morley & Co chartered accountants, said: “Having climbed peaks in South America and the Himalayas I am looking to add Kili to my list of conquests, and am delighted to be able to do so for such a great cause.”
Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa and also the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. This trek will be the fifth expedition there organised for TWIGS, and the three men will be taking the total of those who have climbed in aid of it to 16.
The trio will be taking along with them a tablecloth made at TWIGS, to brandish at the summit – it will be the third time the tablecloth has been to the top. Team patron for all the expeditions is Winter Olympics silver medallist Shelly Rudman.
Alan Holland, TWIGS services manager, said: “Having spoken to previous climbers I have some idea of what a huge achievement climbing Kilimanjaro is. I wish all three a successful and enjoyable time and thank them all for helping break the stigma attached to mental health.”
Anyone who would like to sponsor the trek can do so online at www.virginmoneygiving.com, searching for TWIGS or by each individual’s name. Alternatively people can pop into TWIGS at Cheney Manor, phone 01793 523294 or email twigs.reception@gmail.com
