INSPIRED by a father’s plea to help his daughter walk, a pair of Okehampton colleagues took on the 10k Rock Solid challenge in Escot Park, Exeter, on Sunday 20 March.

Matt Rattenbury and Sophie Jeffreys raised £250 from the challenge for Emma Andersen, a two year old who suffers from cerebral palsy and has been undergoing a series of painful botox injections to help straighten her legs and feet, but if her parents can raise the £35,000 necessary for the operation her quality of life could be improved dramatically.

Matt and Sophie, colleagues at Specsavers in Okehampton, decided to enter the challenge after Matt met Emma’s dad Damon. The duo are thrilled with the support that they received via donations in store.

Matt said: ‘The obstacle course was beyond tough, but it was worth every muddy bruise, ache and pain!

‘I met my friend Damon at an international board game convention a while back and when he told me about what his daughter was going through I really wanted to help. Sophie did a great job and I can’t thank her and everyone that has supported us enough. If we can help Damon with just a few pounds it will move his daughter that bit closer to walking.’ 

Specsavers store director, Karen Reader said: ‘We’re so proud of Matt and Sophie. The cause is very personal to them and it was a wonderful opportunity for the store to support them in their fundraising efforts. Looking at the Rock Solid course, I think they earned every penny as well.’