Two dedicated staff members from East Cheshire Hospice are embarking on an extraordinary adventure to raise funds for the vital care the charity provides. Laura Lamptey and Charlotte Bains are preparing for a challenging five-day trek along the Great Wall of China in November 2026.
Personal Motivations Behind the Challenge
For Laura, the Hospice's People and Development Manager, the cause is deeply personal. The Hospice cared for her sister-in-law, Sarah, who died of cancer in 2014 at the age of 36. "I first became aware of the Hospice because Sarah died here," Laura explained. "I've been here five years and get satisfaction working for an organisation that makes such a big difference."
Her inspiration for the destination came from her daughter, Lola, who visited the Wall in July as part of her Mandarin studies at Tytherington High School. "Lola said it was an amazing experience and I can't wait to visit," Laura added.
For Charlotte, the Hospice's Payroll and Finance Co-ordinator, the trek coincides with a personal milestone. She is approaching her 50th birthday and has never visited the Great Wall. "The trip has come at the right time for me. I wanted a challenge because I hit 50 in two years," she said. As a Malaysian Chinese who has travelled around Asia, this wonder of the world has long been on her list.
Fundraising for a Local Cause
The pair, who both describe working at the Hospice as uniquely rewarding, are already busy with fundraising efforts. They are holding a bingo night at the Broken Cross Club on Friday, March 6. All proceeds will go towards their target and directly support East Cheshire Hospice's services.
Charlotte, who came up with the idea for the trip, said: "It's the best place I could ever choose to work. I'm contributing towards society. It feels rewarding and I'm a happier person."
How to Get Involved
Places are still available for the trek itself, which is scheduled for November 11-19, 2026. The deadline to sign up is February. The itinerary is rated moderate to challenging and includes visits to Beijing highlights like The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
Those wishing to sponsor Laura and Charlotte can do so via their JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/page/laura-charlotte-china-2026.
For more details about joining the trek or supporting the hospice, visit www.eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/trek-china-2026 or email fundraiser Sarah Elvin at sarah.elvin@echospice.org.uk.
