An energetic hairdresser and her friend have raised thousands of pounds for charity while having an experience of a lifetime.
Shirley Newman, of John Newman Hairdressing and Beauty in Rothwell, and her friend Philippa Hallett, of Glendon, have just completed a strenuous, all-women trek in the Himalayas to raise money for the Wellbeing of Women charity.
The pair wanted to set themselves a personal challenge as they reached their 50th birthdays as well as raising money for charity, and spent five days trekking in India as part of the Wellbeing of Women’s Girls Get Tough – Hike the Himalayas challenge. Postponed from April due to the volcanic ash cloud, the trek was the first all-women trek in the Himalayas and reached altitudes of 3,500m (11,483ft).
To prepare for the trek, Shirley and Philippa went to the gym three times a week and climbed Britain’s three highest peaks, Scafell Pike, Snowdon and Ben Nevis, as well as hiking in the Yorkshire Dales and investing in good-quality walking boots.
Shirley said: “All our training really paid off and we never even got a blister.
“The trek was the most exhausting and exhilarating experience of our lives. We saw some breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and visited the Golden Temple and the Taj Mahal.
“We want to thank everyone who sponsored us and all the local businesses who gave us raffle prizes and donations. We managed to raise an incredible £7,500 for Wellbeing of Women, which raises money to improve women’s health through research, training and education.”
Ends
Image attached: Shirley, left, and Philippa returning to camp after reaching the highest point of their trek, 3,500 metres.
1st December 2010
Notes to editors:
Shirley Newman is the wife and business partner of John Newman, of John Newman Hairdressing and Beauty, 19 Bridge Street, Rothwell. The salon opened in 1922 and underwent an extensive refurbishment in 2008. Mr Newman is the third generation of his family to run the business and has been in charge since 1977.
For details go to www.johnnewmanhairdressing.co.uk
Wellbeing for Women is a registered charity which aims to improve women’s health by raising money to pay for research, training and education. For details go to wellbeingofwomen@rcog.org.uk
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