Through wind, rain and shine, the Lavazza Professional team took on the national Three Peaks Challenge, raising over £8000 for local Basingstoke charity, The Café Project.
After 9 months of training, a team of mixed ability hikers and drivers from Lavazza Professional ventured across the UK with expert mountain leaders to climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon. Through smiles, tears and laughter, every team member discovered a little bit more about themselves and how far they could push their bodies to complete each peak. Here’s a closer look at all the action…
The first peak to tick off the list was Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Scotland at over 4000ft – known for it’s rocky, uneven, and often wet terrain, with a steep ascent and descent. The team set off at 7am, full of drive and determination, and although dry, they experienced a chilling drop in temperature as they reached the summit.
That same day the team travelled to their second peak – Scafell Pike – the tallest mountain in England at over 3000ft. Hiking into the night, navigating rough and rocky ground with steep ascents and uneven paths, it was the team’s most physically and mentally challenging climb:
Emily Hartley, Lavazza Professional associate and hiker said it was “One of, if not the, toughest challenges I’ve done in some seriously questionable weather conditions. I properly pushed myself, but the best time with amazing company. An unforgettable experience and so many memories made, a true representation of incredible teamwork.”
Through the support of each other and the amazing mountain leaders keeping everyone motivated, calm and safe, they were able to push themselves to take on the final peak for The Café Project.
Shannel Funch, Lavazza Professional associate and hiker said “I found it both humbling and exhilarating. The most challenging part was staying mentally strong during the long, steep climbs — but reaching each summit brought a deep sense of clarity and accomplishment that made every step worth it.”
Even with muscle aches and pains, the team climbed over 3500ft and got to enjoy the breath taking views of North Wales at the top of Snowdon. A chance to stop and reflect on the incredible achievements from the previous 24 hours:
Craig McCarthy, Lavazza Professional associate and challenge organiser said “It was FANTASTIC to have made so much money to help The Café Project. These funds will help to develop and support trainees to live a more enriched life. It’s a proud achievement for everyone involved.”
The Café Project, based in Basingstoke, was named as the official Lavazza Professional UK (Lavazza Pro) lead charity for 2025; a charity that empowers and trains individuals with learning disabilities – crafting skills, building confidence, creating brighter futures, and serving exceptional coffee along the way.
Comprised of two locations (Café Dome in Brighton Hill and the newly opened Orchard Café in the War Memorial Park), The Café Project was born from the vision of dedicated parents of young adults with learning disabilities, after recognising a significant gap in opportunities after college.
