Peaks challenge targets £500,000

The Three Peaks Challenge has been running since 1998

Tackling the highest peaks in north, mid and south Wales in 15 hours is the aim of teams embarking on the Ty Hafan Three Peaks challenge this weekend.

Organisers hope the annual event, which has raised £439,000 since 1998, will pass the £500,000 landmark this year.

Around 420 people in 78 teams will be tackling Snowdon, Cadair Idris and Penyfan in the event.

The challenge began at 0400 BST on Saturday and teams are expected to finish from 1600 BST.

Participants met to register in Betws-y-Coed, north Wales, on Friday night.

If we get over [Cadair Idris], we should be OK Angela Davies

The challenge involves a distance of 32.7km (20.35 miles)and a total ascent of 2,000m (6,500 ft).

Angela Davies, 35, from Tonyrefail, south Wales, is part of a team of seven ladies who are taking part in the challenge and are on track to raise £1,500.

"Last year I helped out as a marshal and saw what went on and this year I am up for the challenge," she said.

"We just want to finish - we are a little bit apprehensive, but we have done a lot of preparations, and have been up to the Brecon Beacons a lot since January.

Ms Davies admitted she was most worried about Cadair Idris.

More than 400 people are taking part in the event

"It is a huge mountain, so it is a five or six hour climb up and back - if we get over that, we should be OK."

The annual event raises money for the Ty Hafan children's hospice based in Sully.

Craig Ananin, from Ty Hafan, said that even atrocious weather conditions last year had failed to put people off.

"All those taking part last year enjoyed the challenge and many have come back again this year for more punishment," he said.

BBC Wales weatherman Derek Brockway said there should not be any major weather hazards for people taking part.

"It may not be as sunny as it has been, it should be cooler than it has been, but there is the chance of a shower," he said.