A team of determined adventurers has raised an incredible £45,515 for Blythe House Hospice, following an unforgettable trek across the vast and challenging landscape of the Sahara Desert.
Every penny of this staggering total will go directly towards funding the hospice’s vital Roaming Car service, which provides urgent overnight care for patients in the comfort of their own homes. This remarkable achievement will sustain the service for five weeks, ensuring compassionate support for those in need.
The expedition began on Thursday 20th March, with the 24-strong team departing from Manchester Airport, bound for Marrakech. Upon arrival, they embarked on a scenic journey across the Atlas Mountains to Ouarzazate, where they spent the night before heading deeper into the desert.
Their adventure officially commenced on day two, as they met their trek team and the trusty camels responsible for transporting their supplies. Over the next few days, the trekkers navigated golden dunes and ancient riverbeds; they experienced breath-taking sunsets, camped beneath a sky illuminated by countless stars, and gained insight into the rich culture of the nomadic Berber people, all while pushing themselves to the limit for an extraordinary cause.
On the final day of the trek, the team completed a 5km journey to a desert roadside, where they bid farewell to their loyal camels and the exceptional Berber guides who had supported them throughout their adventure.
Rachael Gee, Fundraising and Events Coordinator at Blythe House Hospice, said: ‘This has been an absolutely amazing experience for everyone involved. It was truly life-affirming to witness the determination, teamwork, and spirit of our participants as they conquered one of the world’s most unforgiving landscapes. The funds raised will make a real difference to our hospice services, and we are so grateful to each and every one of them.’
Team member, Beccy Elliott took part in memory of her beloved Nanny Wendy. Beccy said in a Facebook post [sic]: ‘I’ve laughed until I had a tummy ache, cried every single day, made 23 new best friends whom with I’ll share the most magical memories with forever, seen shooting stars, slept under them on African dunes every night, saw the ISS in light pollution free African skies, trekked the Moroccan Sahara for the most wonderful charity and been part of an amazing group of people.’
Cam Wallace posted on his Facebook page [sic]: ‘The best trip of my life thanks to the lovely people who made it so special and ultimately raised so much money for a good cause. So sad it is over and I won’t be waking up in a sand covered sleeping bag again but we had a blast.’
For those feeling inspired by the team’s extraordinary achievement, we’re delighted to announce that spaces are now available for the next Sahara Desert Trek, taking place from 12th to 17th March 2026. This unique challenge promises another unforgettable experience, filled with camaraderie, adventure, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on local hospice care.
