Staff at a school are preparing to take part in the St Francis Hospice Mud ‘n’ Madness challenge.

The team from the Albany School in Broadstone Road, Hornchurch, are joining the challenge at Stubbers Adventure Centre in Ockendon Road, near Upminster on Saturday February 9.

Geography teacher Robyn Hase, History teacher Heather Gubbins and Cover Supervisor Alison Bartrip have signed up as a team.

Robyn said: “We signed up to test ourselves as we have not done anything like this before, although between us we have completed marathons or triathlons.”

The challenge is set over a 7.5km muddy course and participants face a series of army style challenges, 800m of canoeing on the water, a 1,400m run, river crossing, obstacle course and 2,400m run.

Alison said: “Raising money for this much-needed charity whilst challenging myself both physically and mentally makes it all the more worthwhile. I am anticipating tough physical challenges, masses of mud, ice-cold water, freezing temperatures but also lots of fun and laughter; a perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon!”

You can enter on your own or as a team of three. Places are £35 for individuals and £100 for teams of three and you will be asked to raise as much sponsorship as you can for Saint Francis Hospice.

If you’d like to find out more or sign-up as part of the hospice team please visit www.onestepbeyond.org.uk/mud-n-madness-adventure-race.php and mention Saint Francis Hospice when you register or contact the hospice fundraising team on 01708 771405 or email fundraising@sfh.org.uk