A group of former school friends will take on a mountain climbing challenge to raise money for a local hospice.

The ex-Maltings Academy, Witham, pupils will tackle the Three Peaks challenge in aid of the J’s Hospice, Chelmsford.

Peter Wyhton, 42, of Witham, said: “It’s a charity that’s close to our hearts. Carlton’s older brother Chris passed away when we were at school.

“We all lost a big brother when Chris died and there wasn’t really much bereavement counselling for people of his age.

“We just wanted to help out families who are in this situation and could do with the help now.”

Donations can be made through virginmoneygiving.com/teamthecheekypeakers.