A MIX of fitness fanatics from a studio in Oswestry have raised more than £8,000 for the Samaritans after undertaking a walk up Mount Snowdon.

The intrepid fundraisers from Zest Women’s Fitness, Strength & Pilates Studio in Oswestry took on the Snowdon at Night Challenge and although poor weather conditions prevented them from reaching the summit, they raised the sum thanks to donations from family and friends.

The event, organised by Charity Challenge, involved trekking the nine miles of Llanberis path up to the summit of Snowdon and back, starting at midnight on Saturday, October 16.

Louise Aust, team member and fitness instructor, said the team of 16, made up of staff and members of plus friends and family, were disappointed to not complete the challenge but was delighted with the fundraising.

"We're disappointed, but satisfied that the guides had made the right decision for everyone’s safety and the team headed back down and finished their journey a little earlier than planned, at 4am," she said.

"It was a tough, but rewarding night. At certain points the wind was so strong it blew us off balance and the rain, once it had started, was constant.

"You could see the raindrops flying by horizontally in the head torch beams.

"Yes, we were disappointed not to reach the summit, but we are amazed and delighted by the amount we’ve raised together for Samaritans.

"It really has made the months of training and the cold, wet night on Snowdon worth it."

The group took in a number of local challenges as preparation for the event, including Nesscliffe, Rodney's Pillar and across Llangollen plus special Snowdon training classes every Saturday morning at the gym.

Louise added: "Though conditions were initially dry and mild, heavy rain and strong winds began in the early hours of Sunday morning.

"The group completed three quarters of the Llanberis path, passing Allt Moses, before the mountain guides decided that the conditions were too dangerous to continue.

"As well as the downpour, the wind speed on the trail ahead was at minimum 45mph, with gusts over 65mph."

If you would like to learn more about or donate to the organisation please visit samaritans.org