Staff from UK Power Networks raised more than £24,000 for charity after taking part in a walking and hiking challenge in the Cotswolds.

Nearly 400 employees from the power company took part in The Duke of Edinburgh Adventure on September 15 and 16 – where participants could choose a one-day 30km walk or a two-day hike of 50km.

The money raised will go to the Duke of Edinburgh Charity, which gives young people aged 14-24 the chance to develop skills for life and work.

Among the staff from UK Power Networks taking part in the challenge were Daniel Higdon, from the Bury St Edmunds office, and O’Neil Maitland and Lucy Kent, from the Ipswich office, who completed the fundraising hike.

Mr Maitland said: “I had a great weekend, it was a tough but fun challenge and we met some great people along the way.

“Also thanks to my colleagues who sponsored my team and for the company for offering us the opportunity to go on such a great adventure.”

Kathy O’Brien, senior corporate partnerships manager at the Duke of Edinburgh Charity, said; “Their enthusiasm and energy are key ingredients in the success of this event.

“They really enter into the full Duke of Edinburgh spirit of teamwork, resilience and determination - both in the walking and in celebrating their achievements.

“We are incredibly grateful for their support and commitment to making the DofE Adventure a major event in the UK Power Networks’ calendar.”

Matt Rudling, director of customer services at UK Power Networks, who also took part in the weekend, said; “It truly was a great weekend and so well organised.

“It was great that so many of our employees took part and encouraged each other to keep going.

“The atmosphere and teamwork was brilliant, I loved it. We are very proud of everyone who has raised so much money.”