Cancer Fundraisers: Intrepid trio rise to the charity challenge

The charity's annual Flame of Hope Awards recognises remarkable efforts in fundraising and volunteering made by people from all walks of life.

Friends Phil Purdy, 49, and Peter Bailey, 53, of Brighouse, along with Norwich-based Jeff Crooke, 59, scooped the 2010 Fundraising Through Sport accolade, beating off stiff competition from across the UK.

The Yorkshire Post reported how, following 18 months of planning, preparation and fundraising, the three friends reached the summit of Cho Oyu, which is 20 miles to the west of Mount Everest between China and Nepal, on September 24 last year – after a 45-day ascent.

It involved climbing above 8,000 metres, generally known as the "death zone".

The men had to camp throughout the trip in temperatures ranging from 30C to –30C and put up with some unappetising meals.

Phil had a very personal reason for wanting to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. His father died of lung cancer in 2002.

Brighouse teacher Peter Bailey also had a personal reason for the climb.

His wife, Margaret, had a cancer scare just over 10 years ago, but thanks to very good treatment she has made a full recovery.

Peter worked at the William Henry Smith School in Brighouse for 27 years. At 53, the climb was the fulfilment of a lifetime's ambition.

At 59, Jeff Crooke, the managing director of Lintott Control Systems in Norwich, was the oldest person in the expedition. However, he was first to reach the summit.

Phil, who works for Yorkshire Water in Leeds and is a father-of-four, said: "Climbing Cho Oyu was the biggest physical and mental challenge any of us had ever taken on. But we were kept going by the promise we had given to Cancer Research UK and to those who had sponsored us."

Harpal Kumar, Cancer Research UK chief executive, said: "Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer. However, we have only been able to do this thanks to the dedication and commitment of our volunteers and supporters like Phil, Jeff and Peter, without whom we would not be able to fund outstanding scientists, doctors and nurses. Our Flame of Hope awards give us the opportunity to celebrate and say thank you."

Nicki Embleton, Cancer Research UK spokesman for Yorkshire said: "These awards are our way of saying thanks to the people who are the lifeblood of our organisation – people who give of their time freely to raise money for research and promote greater awareness of the disease, and yet ask for nothing in return.

"Phil, Jeff and Peter showed great courage and determination in conquering not only the mountain, but also their 100,000 fundraising target. We salute them – and our supporters everywhere."