Snowdon Challenge

A day later than planned due to better weather, on Sunday, 2nd October members of staff, friends and family gathered in Llanberis to take on the Snowdon challenge in aid of worthy charities Cronfa Cofio Robin and the DPJ Foundation.

The hiker set off up the Llanberis Path that follows the rail line; according to the Snowdonia National Park Authority this is the safest for groups but also the longest, circa 9 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 3,078ft. This route is classified as hard and strenuous therefore a challenge for anyone.

Though tempting it was to hop on the train the sun offered some encouragement to press on with the daunting climb ahead. For the remainder of the day the weather was variable, as is renowned for Snowdon with intermittent mist and fog, but for most part it was fair and bright and everyone savoured the spectacular views when possibl. It was a hard slog up but determination prevailed and everyone made it to the summit.

Andy Goswell, SCCs Head of Cheese Operations is a keen runner and he set off some time before the rest to concur Snowdon in 2 hours 15 minutes. He said, “I normally run just for fun and for the exercise but it was made to feel a bit special knowing it was for a good cause and charity.”

Warehouse Manager Ryan Steadman and Accounts Assistant Nikki Williams were accompanied by their furry family members. Ryan said it was “a fun way for Jini to celebrate her upcoming 2^nd birthday”.

The walk got lighter and more joyful as the hikers approached back down towards Llanberis village and everyone was thrilled to be back unscathed and were very pleased to have completed the challenge. There were a few stiff limbs and comments in the line of “never again” but all were unanimous that every step was worth the effort to raise funds for such fantastic causes.

A massive thank you to everyone who took on the challenge, to our farmer members and all SCCs factory suppliers for their support and generosity towards helping us raise funds towards Cronfa Cofio Robin, a charity established to support young sporting talents; and the DPJ Foundation a charity established to support mental health of those in the farming community.