STAFF from Premier Foods in Lifton have helped raise £28,000 in the Jurassic Coast Charity Challenge.

Dorset’s Jurassic Coast in Weymouth saw more than 100 colleagues from food manufacturer Premier Foods walk the 22-mile coast line on Friday, September 7, as part of its annual Aim Higher Charity Challenge.

The participants are based across the country in Premier Foods’ factories and business functions in Lifton, Andover, Ashford, High Wycombe, Carlton, Worksop, Moreton, Charnwood, St Albans, Stoke on Trent, Manchester and Rugby. Together they braved the elements and raised a total of £28,000 for their charity partner — mental health charity Mind.

Whilst taking in the stunning scenery during the walk, participants encountered steep hills, strong head winds and had to navigate safely around vertical drops. The walkers took between five and ten hours to complete the distance, whilst other intrepid heroes decided to run the course.

Six members of staff from the Lifton factory took part in the challenge: Graeme Strike, Andrew Waite, Samantha Carver-Trotter, David Watts, Rachel Matheson and Grahame Wallis.

Rachel, operations production manager for Lifton, said: “We really enjoyed the challenge and it was great fun taking part. There was a really good atmosphere on the day and great to see so many different people from across the business achieving personal goals and raising money and awareness for Mind.

“We found conditions a bit challenging on coastal path due to the exceptionally warm weather, but the scenery was amazing. The best thing was definitely the great team spirit and encouragement.

“Personally, I feel very pleased we have managed to raise such a significant sum of money for Mind, it is great to have the opportunity to get involved through our own company.”

Chief executive Gavin Darby, who ran the course, said: “I was delighted to see so many of my colleagues from across the country come together to take part in this important event, which helped us to raise a significant sum of money for our charity partner Mind.

“We were very proud this year to partner with Mind to support them in their vital work. It’s great to know the money we’ve all raised today will help to support and empower those suffering with mental health issues through the array of services provided by the charity.”

Kathleen Miles, Director of Fundraising for Mind, said: “We are delighted to be in partnership with Premier Foods and grateful to all their staff for taking on this challenge and raising a fantastic amount for Mind.

“Their support over the course of this partnership will allow us to continue to be there for people who need it, when they need it the most. We look forward to working with Premier Foods to ensure that everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets both the support and respect they deserve.”