Friends in high places!

Marion Fleming and her family from Portrush and her friend Debbie Calboun and her partner from Coleraine are getting into peak condition to take part in the Friends of the Cancer Centre Slieve Donard Challenge.

This group of seven local participants have the opportunity to enjoy the Province’s highest view point, they will also be helping to fund the official charity of the Northern Ireland Cancer Centre, based at the Belfast City Hospital.

The group members include: Marion, her partner Terry Morgan, her daughters Tamara and Terri Ann Fleming and their friend Leah Millar, plus Debbie and her partner Damien Donnelly.

Marion explained why the group are taking part in the challenge: “Most people know someone who has been affected by cancer.

“My father is currently receiving treatment at the Cancer Centre for lung cancer so I can appreciate the value of the support that comes from the facility’s staff and resources, day in and day out, to help families cope with such life-changing conditions.

“We’re all really looking forward to being part of this year’s event and enjoying the amazing view from the top. It will be a great challenge, great fun and a great cause into the bargain! There’s bound to be a lot of banter along the way with everyone following each other to the top. Hopefully we’ll get good weather, but we’ll be prepared for anything just in case.”

The Slieve Donard Challenge on September 7th will set off from the car park in Donard Park, alongside the Glen River, heading uphill through old woodland of Scots Pine, Oak and Birch. After crossing a stile, participants follow the track above the river for about 2kms, heading towards the saddle between Donard and Commedagh, after which they can set their sights on the ultimate goal of the summit of Slieve Donard.