Foodservice duo complete highest peaks in 32 counties fundraising challenge
Two team members from one of Ireland’s leading Foodservice companies have completed a gruelling challenge which has seen them summit the highest peaks in the 32 counties of Ireland in just four days straight.
Roy Dempster and Geoff Baird from Henderson Foodservice took on the challenge earlier this month, scaling 28 mountains in four days, back-to-back, all in aid of the company’s charity partners that support children, families and mental wellbeing across Ireland: NI Children’s Hospice, Jack & Jill Foundation and PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland.
Roy and Geoff set off up Slieve Donard at 3pm and were back down in the dark at just after 8pm.
The pair have raised over £9,200 so far, thanks to their herculean efforts and are aiming to reach over £10,000 by the time the crowdfunder closes at the end of the month.
Fittingly, the challenge included a day of treks on World Suicide Prevention Day (10th September), highlighting the importance of awareness, support and action for those who are experiencing, or have experienced suicidal thoughts or mental unwellness, which PIPS provides across the island of Ireland.
Sales Field Manager, Roy Dempster said this was an important drive for the pair as they took on the 17,000 meters of ascent; He said: “We experienced some brutal conditions during the four day trek.
“However, we had each other and the support of our friends, colleagues and family cheering us on, which is an important lesson to take away from this adventure… no matter how tough things get, there is support out there and it is so important to reach out as nobody is alone.”
Geoff Baird, Business Development Chef at Henderson Foodservice added; “This really was one epic challenge for us both, however it was also a huge privilege to be able to do this for our charity partners, particularly focusing on mental health and wellbeing.
“We received incredible support from our colleagues, with the company supporting all the logistics that needed to be put into place to make this as smooth a process as possible.
“We are so grateful to all who have donated so far, as we know these are three incredibly worthwhile charities to help families and individuals across the island of Ireland.”
Partnering with some of their customers, Henderson Foodservice also launched a prize draw to encourage even more donations, with over £1,500 alone raised from entries.
Prizes include overnight and spa stays with Mount Juliet, Hastings Hotels, Crowne Plaza and Ramada Hotel, plus Game of Thrones Tour experience tickets, comedy nights, Hillmount Garden Centre vouchers, luxury hampers, restaurant and café vouchers, plus so much more.
Crowdfunder donations are open until Wednesday 24th September 2025, with the prize draw donations open until Thursday 30th September 2025.
To enter, visit:
crowdfunder.co.uk/p/32-counties-challenge-prize-draw.
