Posties take on the Three Peaks

But at the weekend, a group of intrepid local posties swapped their usual delivery bags for rucksacks and walking boots as they tackled the Three Peaks Challenge.

The group took up the challenge - which saw them climb the three highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales in just 24-hours - to raise money for Niamh Power.

The youngster, who is from Maltby, is battling a recurring brain tumour.

The walkers set off for Fort William in the Scottish Highlands to tackle their first peak - Ben Nevis - on Sunday morning.

They began their climb at 5pm, and once the group had bagged their 1344m munro, they set off to the Lake District to tackle Scafell Pike.

Another mountain down, they hit the road for a final time heading to North Wales to climb Snowdon, finishing at 5pm on Monday.

Organiser Mick Dykes said: “It was a good laugh. It was hard work but we all enjoyed the challenge. Everyone was a little bit sore afterwards, but it was worth it.”

Mick’s son plays rugby with Niamh’s brother Seb.

“When we found out about her I wanted to do something to help,” he said.

“Because we deliver post and we walk around a lot I thought this was the ideal challenge.”

Mick said that the team, made up of postal staff and family and friends, trained for the challenge by going out for walks in the Peak District.

“Everyone has been brilliant,” said Mick. “I deliver post along the main street in Dinnington and everyone has been stopping me and donating money.”

Mick was joined on the challenge by his wife Becky Dykes Andy Mitchell, Paul Clarke, Paul and Karen Szekeres, Martin Eccles, Matt Trek, Leslie Gray, Richard Simmonite and Oliver Cooper.

“Fingers crossed we should raise around £2,000,” he added.

Anyone wanting to sponsor the group can still do so by visiting Niamh’s website at www. hopeforniamh.co.uk.