ELE employees take on the big three for local charity

Colne-based advanced manufacturing business ELE Advanced Technologies took on the Yorkshire three peaks challenge recently in a bid to raise money for Rachel’s Christmas Toy Appeal – an initiative set up following the loss of an employee’s wife.

The team tackled the three mountains to generate funds for the toy appeal established in the name of maintenance manager Tony Butterworth’s wife Rachel, who lost her battle with liver cancer in April 2023.

Rachel was an active fundraiser for children’s charities that provide Christmas presents for those who would otherwise go without.

ELE wanted to support Tony to continue Rachel’s work by climbing the highest peaks of Yorkshire, raising £2,720 in the process.

The participants completed the challenge in under 11 hours, battling the wind and rain throughout their journey up Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside.

Their efforts followed Rachel’s 26 consecutive years of fundraising for charities that make Christmas special for children who otherwise receive nothing for Christmas.

Tony said: “It was an incredible effort from everyone involved, taking on the weather as well as the physical and mental challenges in honour of Rachel.

“Her selfless efforts inspired so many, and we wanted to continue the work she proudly took on every single year.

“She had a heart full of compassion and an unwavering commitment to making a difference, so the funds we raised are not only a tribute to my wife but a way of continuing her legacy.” 

Donations are still invited on the JustGiving page set up by Tony.