Dear Friends and Partners,

Over the weekend of 5–6 July 2025, twelve hikers from Carisbrooke Shipping tackled the 24 Peaks Challenge in the Lake District, in support of The Seafarers’ Charity. Half our team were first-time “Peakers,” guided by veterans—most notably Robert Wester on his 12th outing (or more!)

The route covers 24 peaks, spans 33 miles (53 km) with 13,000 ft (4,000 m) of ascent, to be completed within 24 hours over two days.

Day 1:

We set off at 5:45 am beside Lake Buttermere in dry, cloudy weather. By the time we reached Scafell Pike, England’s highest point at 978 m, mist, rain, and gusty winds had closed in. With no views to savour, we pressed on to make the cutoffs, finishing by 7 pm; exhausted, soaked, and wind-blown – before carbo-loading and resting at the Ambleside youth hostel.

Day 2:

An early start saw us conquer fourteen more peaks, from Red Screes to Great Dodd, another 5,639 ft (1,700 m) up and down. Sunshine broke through, lifting spirits, and by 3 pm we’d crossed the line, then rehydrated lakeside and enjoyed a celebratory cruise.

This year we were not able to defend 2023 fastest team title, which was won by a trio of speedy Maersk hikers (well done!). Team captain Robert Wester was awarded the prize for the highest individual fundraiser. Carisbrooke Shipping won Top Fundraising Team generating much needed funds to support seafarers in need and their families.

Though the challenge proved extremely tough (especially Day 1 was one of the worst we have encountered weather-wise), most importantly we raised £16,000 for the Charity, for which we are extremely grateful to our supporters for your generous donations.

Around £70,000 was raised in total for Seafarers by the 102 walkers taking part in the Challenge this year representing many international maritime companies.

Special Thanks:

Stephen Bell (minibus driving), Tina Fosberry (logistics), Vanessa W. (weekend support), and everyone whose donations made this possible.

A massive thank-you again to all who supported our fundraising efforts for The Seafarers’ Charity.

Thank you, and well done, on behalf of Team Carisbrooke!

Chris, Dick, Jack, Kelvin, Kerstin, Lionel, Michael, Rob A.,

Robert H., Simon, Stephen, Tina, Will, Vanessa & Robert W.