INTREPID young men climbed the three highest peaks all in one go to help raise money for a playground appeal.

Neil Leahy, Michael Woolley and Tyler Dunkin, who work at Butler & Stag in Theydon Bois, spent just 13 hours and 13 minutes climbing Ben Nevis, Scaffell Pike and Mount Snowdon.

The group were supporting a campaign to help build a new playground in Theydon Bois so children can have a safer, more secure place to play.

Neil said: “It was hard going but we loved it. Of course, there are highs and lows emotionally, largely from fatigue and lack of sleep.

“The mini bus was horrible, no room to spread out and smelt of sweat and feet, and we were cooped up with four people we had never met before.

“But it was all part of the experience and after the first walk we had bonded.”

As they trekked up Ben Nevis they had to battle 50mph winds, while they attempted Scaffell Pike through heavy rain and pitch-black darkness.

The playground appeal has already raised £3,637 and still hopes to meet its target of £10,000.

Plans also include apparatus for disabled children plus an outreach for the wider local community.

Chairman of the Playground and Theydon Appeal, Shelley Dix, said: “We are really grateful to Butler & Stag and to everyone who has donated so far – thank you.”