A group of journalists from the Western Daily Press, Bristol Evening Post and the Bristol Observer have handed over more than £5,000 to charity after completing a marathon mountain climb in honour of former colleague George Frew.

Together with colleagues from Derby-based Northcliffe Electronic Publishing, the adventurous team completed the George Frew Memorial Three Peaks Challenge last June, climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales (Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon) in 36 hours.

The event paid tribute to former Western Daily Press features editor George, who lost his battle with lung cancer in 2003, and the group raised a total of £5,209.39, which was shared between Cancer Research UK and the Newspaper Press Fund.

Norman Walters, of the Newspaper Press Fund (front row, third from left) and Penny Beare from Cancer Research UK (second right) with Tim Kitchen, managing director of the Bristol Evening Post and Press (far left) and journalists who took part in the challenge

Organiser Steve White, who had worked closely with George, said: “It was a really big effort from everyone involved.

“Taking on the Three Peaks challenge involves a significant commitment in time and hard work, and I know both the NPF and Cancer Research UK are delighted with the outcome. The money we raised will be put to very good use.

“I’m sure George would be very proud of every person who took part in the challenge or helped us in any way.”