WALKERS took a charity trek up Wales' highest peak in memory of a doctor and a patient.

A total of 126 walkers walked up Snowdon to raise nearly £6,000 towards the Veterans’ Orthopaedic Centre campaign.

The annual Snowpaedic Challenge is organised by the Orthopaedic Institute, a charity based at the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital in Gobowen.

A £1.5 million appeal has been launched to fund a Veterans’ Orthopaedic Centre at RJAH which will allow veterans and serving military personnel to be treated in a dedicated care environment.

This year, the walk was held in memory of consultant orthopaedic surgeon Professor James Richardson - an enthusiastic supporter of the event who died earlier this year - and RJAH patient Stuart Dickens.

Debra Alexander, fundraiser for the Orthopaedic Institute, said: “Stuart had two hip replacements due to a rare bone condition, avascular necrosis, which causes a loss of blood supply resulting in the bones decaying.

“His surgery was performed at RJAH under the care of consultant orthopaedic surgeon and army surgeon Lieutenant Colonel Carl Meyer.

“To thank Lt Col Meyer and RJAH for his care, Stuart decided to walk up Mount Snowdon to help raise money which is how the Snowpaedic Challenge was born.

“This is only one of the fundraising events Stuart initiated, and he helped raise over £16,000 towards the new Veterans’ Centre.

“Sadly, Stuart passed away on 4 May at only 30 years old.”

Walkers braved the adverse conditions on the day to walk up Prof Richardson's preferred route, the Llanberis Path, which is approximately nine miles up and down.

Debra added: “We had 119 people booked to participate in the challenge, but given the weather forecast I expected around 50 to show up. I was delighted and amazed at the number of people who showed up to take part.

“So far we have raised almost £6,000 and still have more sponsorship money expected to come in over the next few weeks.

“After the walk, we held a toast to Prof and Stuart who are both very special gentleman and will be remembered for many reasons, but especially for their kindness and consideration to others.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who joined us for the Snowpaedic Challenge and for their continued support.”

To support the Veterans Orthopaedic Centre campaign, visit www.rjah.nhs.uk/voca

To take part in next year’s Snowpaedic Challenge, call Debra Alexander on 01691 404 561.