SRM RECRUITMENT TAKES ON THE YORKSHIRE 3 PEAKS FOR ANTHONY NOLAN

A team of seven from SRM Recruitment recently swapped candidate sourcing for hiking boots to take on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge – a gruelling 24-mile trek, including over 5000 ft of elevation, across the stunning but demanding peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.

The idea came about during one of SRM’s regular circuit training sessions, when Rory MacSween suggested the team should put a date in the diary for something to work towards - a proper challenge with purpose. And so, with the help of an old ex-forces contact at EnduroTrek, the Yorkshire 3 Peaks was born - part team-building, part fundraising, and a whole lot of effort!

Taking part in the challenge were: Rory MacSween, Richard Boyd, Rob McKay, Gwen Shaw, James Rodgers, Seb Ellis and Bradley Chilvers. With some extra training sessions squeezed in, the team headed up to Yorkshire on 11th June and were on their feet from 6.30am the following day, supported by their two experienced guides from EnduroTrek who kept them on track and moving.

It was a tough day, with just a few short breaks, but glorious weather made the effort worthwhile. People had to really dig deep, a lot of heart went into it, but thankfully there were no injuries. The team powered through all three peaks, completing the challenge in an impressive 10.5 hours, well within the target time of 10-12 hours.

In the lead-up, a team ballot was held to choose the charity, with Anthony Nolan – a charity that saves the lives of people with blood cancer – coming out on top. The team has raised almost £3,000 so far, with donations still coming in.

Here’s what some of the team had to say:

“After nearly 20 years in the recruitment industry, I’ve seen that many firms tend to reward staff mainly through drinks events, lunches, and dinners. While we certainly enjoy those at SRM, I wanted to offer something more meaningful alongside the usual socials. That’s why we introduced monthly circuit training sessions with a Hyrox master trainer — and the response was incredible. A year into the training, it felt like the right moment to take on a challenge that would push us both physically and mentally. The Yorkshire Three Peaks was the perfect choice. With expert guidance from Bobby McGuane at Endurotrek, we tackled the hike with confidence. It was inspiring to see the team come together, supporting each other every step of the way. I genuinely believe that experience has had a lasting, positive effect on how we collaborate back in the office.” - Rory MacSween

“It really was an amazing event for a brilliant charity. It’s not often you get to spend that sort of time with colleagues and get to know them that little bit more – it made it really special. My one top tip, however, is not to carry a tin of duck pâté in your rucksack for 26 miles… it is unnecessary extra weight.” - Rob McKay

“What a great experience it was walking the Yorkshire 3 Peaks with my SRM colleagues recently! Tough but hugely rewarding and so pleased to raise nearly £3,000 for Anthony Nolan, a charity very close to my heart.” - James Rodgers

“It was amazing to get out of London and soak up the views in the Yorkshire Dales. I had a fantastic time with the SRM crew, raising money for such a worthy cause. That said, I don’t think I could’ve prepared myself for how tough the third peak, Ingleborough, was going to be after 20 miles of hiking!” - Seb Ellis

“Really delighted we did this as a team and thanks again to Rory for taking the initiative and getting this organised, and to our guides from EnduroTrek who were excellent. The walk itself is a real challenge with some epic scenery – would absolutely recommend it for a team building day or a social with friends.” - Richard Boyd

“What a challenge! Fantastic day out with the SRM crew, very proud of the team for completing the walk and for raising close to £3,000 for Anthony Nolan. I have some unfinished business with peak 3 and will be back...” - Brad Chilvers

A huge well done to everyone involved – there’s already talk of taking on another challenge next year. So watch this space!