A volunteer at a children’s hospice swapped her seat in reception for walking boots as she spent 22 muddy hours during the London2Brighton Challenge at the weekend.

Trisha McInerney Simmons, works as a volunteer at Richard House Children’s Hospice in Beckton every Wednesday. She took part in the challenge over the weekend of May 24 and 25 with her son Joseph Simmons and a family friend from America.

Trisha said: “We called ourselves Team Atlantic Bridge because of where we were born. My son loves walking and wanted to do something outside of his comfort zone, I said I would do it too – as long as we all raised money for Richard House!”

“We have been very lucky – we have a son and we have always been a part of his life. We always get great pleasure from working with children. It is about giving back.”

The muddy conditions meant Trisha and Joseph were unable to make it to the end of the 100km challenge, with Trisha having to pull out after 67.5km (22 hours) of walking and Joseph stopping after 80km. Lauren finally completed the event in 32 hours.

“It was a real experience. I was disappointed I could not finish it, but we have learnt a lot and we met a lot of great people. Everyone was really supportive. The mud was indescribable, especially in the wooded areas. We were walking in the pitch black, with just a little light from our torches.”

The trio were among more than 3,000 people who attempted the challenge.

Manjeet Boparai, events manager at Richard House Children’s Hospice, said: “Trisha (AKA her Royal Pinkness – because of her pink Doc Martins) is a wonderful volunteer at Richard House, and her enthusiasm is so positive. Walking 22 hours non-stop in those conditions was amazing. Supporters like Trisha make all the difference to children and families at Richard House.”

To sponsor Trisha go to: http://www.justgiving.com/Trish-Mc-Inerney-Simmons