A team of estate agents has swapped houses for mountains after heading out on a “gruelling” trek to raise funds for the Andover Foodbank.

Seven members of Graham & Co, based in Andover and Whitchurch, set off on a 24km hike on July 4 through the Pen-y-fan area of Wales. They are covering the route of the ‘Fan Dance’ special forces selection route, which is used to test the mettle of potential recruits.

A spokesperson for the company told the Advertiser: “The Andover Food Bank provides emergency food packages for families in crisis and has been a lifeline to many people in the community. The Graham & Co team would like to help the Food Bank continue their work supporting those in need by raising as much as they can.”

The Fan Dance exercise has been carried out for many decades as part of the initial selection process for the special forces. In the challenge, individuals climb Pen-y-Fan, the highest peak in south Wales and the Brecon Beacons, before descending down the other side onto the route of a Roman Road. They then come back on themselves and climb Jacob’s Ladder before returning.

While special forces candidates are given four hours and ten minutes to complete the route, the Graham & Co team, made up of Wayne Turpin, Guy Somerville, Tristan Wheatley, Bex Cox, Dion McArthur, Ross Beeden and Nick King, set out on a day hike.

The event was originally meant to take place in January, but due to Covid restrictions it was postponed until this month.

The team successfully completed the challenge, and have raised over £2000 so far. They are hoping to raise even more.

Following their completion of the challenge, they told their supporters: “We did it! Thanks to everyone who supported us and has made a donation!

“It was quite possibly the hardest thing we have ever done but we had a great time and we are so pleased to have raised so much for the Andover Foodbank.”

If you would like to donate, visit: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/graham-and-co-team-fan-dance-race-sas-challenge