A NEW fundraising event helped to raise more than £35,000 for charity when it took place in Crowthorne.

Nearly 70 people competed in The Emergency Challenge, which was organised by Oxfam at Wellington College, in Duke’s Ride.

Competitors went head-to-head in teams of four and used their skills to respond to high-pressure emergency scenarios.

The action-packed challenge tested the teams with a series of mental, physical and strategic challenges on five key emergency areas – water, food, sanitation, shelter and security.

Running, cycling, navigation and puzzle solving were all involved as they battled it out against the clock through the day and into the night.

Money was raised through entry fees and teams’ spon- sorship. Andy Speller, a team leader at the event, said: “It was a terrific day and, despite some weary legs, it was a huge success. It was great to bring together staff to develop teamwork and leadership skills.” Tom Holloway, from Oxfam, said he was thrilled by the event. He said: “We’ve already had some amazing feedback from the teams that took part.

“They really embraced the challenges and the competition was intense. It’s the ultimate away-day for companies, offering fantastic team building and personal development opportunities.

“We’re aiming for 50 teams next year and we’d love for more local companies to get involved. ” The money raised at the event on Saturday, November 2, will go towards Oxfam’s vital work in emergency situations in countries including Syria. It hopes to provide, food, water and shelter to 650,000 of the million-plus refugees who have fled the country.

Oxfam is a global humanitarian, development and campaigning organisation working with others to overcome poverty and suffering. It works in nearly 60 countries on a diverse range of projects, from providing emergency water sources to supporting community health projects.