Adventurers in freezing challenge for NHS trust

Fourteen adventurers survived three nights outside in sub-zero temperatures in Sweden to raise more than £20,000 for a hospital NHS trust.

Staff and supporters of the University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) charity had to learn how to chop down trees, make fires to boil snow for water and sleep in a tepee.

They used tree trunks and branches to build shelters while some also dug a snow hole to sleep in, in temperatures as low as -20C (-4F).

Funds raised by those who took part in the challenge will support their chosen department at the hospital, a trust spokesperson said.

During the challenge, there was no access to electricity or running water.

Dr Amie Burbridge said it was "really, really hard" but also "one of the best things I have ever done".

"Sleeping in a frozen sleeping bag was really tough. The nearest town was miles away but the scenery and sky were beautiful," she said.

"We had a lot of fun; I haven't laughed as much in years. There was lots of singing and dancing, it really got people out of their shells - and kept us warm at the same time."

UHCW charity director Jo O'Sullivan said it was "such a great group that really supported each other" and everyone pulled together to cope.

"The incredible work of our teams at UHCW save lives every day - I am always bowled over by their hard work and dedication and that kept us going," she said.

"A huge thank you to everyone who took part and to those who sponsored our amazing participants - those donations will have a huge impact."

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