Our relay revisited

How we took on a six-day challenge to help an important local charity

We completed our charity relay in six days, with 12 of our team members visiting 12 landmarks for one very important charity: Emmanuel House, which supports homeless and vulnerable adults in Nottingham.

Chartered accountant Steph Gubas kicked off the charity challenge on Saturday 31 July at Emmanuel House HQ.

Steph

“I took part in the challenge mainly because I think Emmanuel House do such important work supporting the homeless and vulnerable adults in Nottingham and I thought it would be fantastic if we could raise a bit of money to help them continue. It's also great getting involved in charity events at Page Kirk, as I love a challenge and working with colleagues to achieve a common goal.” – Steph

That afternoon, manager Rachael Cobb ran to Attenborough Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife managed by Nottingham Wildlife Trust.

Rachael

“The challenge helped me become more active and to appreciate the quality of life I have. Being able to access a warm shower after my exercise is a luxury so many do not have. I hope the challenge helped raise money and awareness of Emmanuel House, enabling them to continue the great work they do in supporting the homeless.” – Rachael

The second day saw Imogen Eley, HR Officer, walk to the City Ground, home of Nottingham Forest FC, with her son Grey and dog Gus.

Imogen

“I love getting involved in our fundraising efforts. We really pulled together and worked as a team for such a worthy cause.” – Imogen

Payroll manager Jo Poulter took over the relay by visiting newly revamped Nottingham Castle.

Jo

“The services that Emmanuel House provide have such a positive impact on the Nottingham community, so I am honoured that the firm generates such enthusiasm and dedication to raising awareness of the charity.” – Jo

Partner James Haywood started with an early morning run on Monday to the statue of the legendary Forest manager Brian Clough, situated in Nottingham city.

James

“As Page Kirk is based in Nottingham, it is great to give something back to the city by supporting a local charity at the heart of our community.” – James

While James was running, trainee accountant Sonja Dengler cycled to Green's Windmill, a restored and working 19th century tower windmill, producing award- winning flour.

Sonja

“Taking the challenge gave me a chance to get out and about more, while also raising funds for our charity.” – Sonja

Tuesday was our fourth day of the challenge, with 88 miles clocked up, but still over 72 miles to complete. It saw partner Jack Moore cycle around Holme Pierrepont, and the National Water Sports Centre.

Jack

“I am extremely proud of the team for always going out of their way to support such excellent causes. Emmanuel House have transformed the lives of so many people and I'm hopeful this challenge will help raise greater awareness of the excellent services they provide.” – Jack

That evening, Payroll AdministratorTracey Cousins walked around Sherwood Forest, home of the legend of Robin Hood, with her two dogs, Lenny and Dakota.

Tracey

“I am proud to be supporting Emmanuel House, as they provide practical solutions for people suffering with problems such as homelessness and addiction.” – Tracey

Wednesday was our penultimate day and it saw Trainee Accountant James Tarr run to the oldest inn in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem.

James

“I love the charity challenges that we take part in at the firm, as they bring everyone closer together and help to support some excellent causes.” – James

Another one of our trainees was also on the run, Josh Smithurst. He ran to a house that was built in 1580s and been home to industrialists, barons, and Batman: Wollaton Hall.

Josh

“I loved getting involved in my first fundraising event at PK. It was great to work together as a team and help raise money for such a good cause.” – Josh

Our final day of the relay was Thursday. Accountant Tom Johnson cycled to Trent Bridge, home of cricket. 

Tom

“I enjoy cycling anyway, but the chance to contribute to this good cause motivated me to make a special trip to Trent Bridge. If our fundraising can help others in the city, that's a really positive thing.” – Tom

Head Receptionist Amanda Willis finished the relay at our home, the Page Kirk offices on Gregory Boulevard.

Amanda

“I wasn't actually expecting to take part in the challenge, but when the team needed me, I was there! It has been great organising the challenge, and to take part in it in the eleventh hour really topped it off! With the Emmanuel House night shelter temporary closed, we wanted to do everything we can to support them at a difficult time.” – Amanda

Throughout the challenge each team member didn't just take part in that one day, they took part across the 6 days, completing 160.3 miles, the distance between Fukushima and the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo, which was Japan's stretch of the Olympic torch relay.

However, just like in the Olympics, things don't always go to plan. There was an injury in the camp, as Jess Maddams fell and badly injured her knee. We wish her a quick and full recovery!

Jessica

“I was gutted not to complete the relay with the team. I felt like I let the team down, but everyone was very understanding and a big thank you to Amanda who took my place. I'm proud of what the team achieved and can't wait for the next fundraiser!” – Jess

Thank you to everyone that has supported us through the relay.

This challenge was organised to increase awareness and raise funds for our charity of the year, Emmanuel House. They are an outstanding charity that provide life-changing rehabilitation, victim support and advice services for vulnerable and homeless adults in Nottingham.

The charity receives no government funding for their core services and relies entirely on the generosity and support of the public to stay open.

If you would like to donate, our fundraising page is still open and we will be grateful for any contributions.

Click here to donate