A Woodford Green businesswoman was one of the brave souls taking part in a 7.5km endurance event on Saturday to raise money for a hospice helping Redbridge adults.

Nicola Smith, a business manager at The Revival Company - a fire and flood restoration firm in Roding Lane South, Woodford Green - shrugged off the cold to tackle the course at Stubbers Adventure Centre, Upminster.

Her efforts over a series of army challenges including obstacle climbs and an 800m canoe raised funds for Saint Francis Hospice, Romford. The hospice provides palliative care for adults with life-limiting illnesses from Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham, Brentwood and Havering.

Around 50 people took part raising an expected �10,000.

Ms Smith, of St Anthony’s Avenue, Woodford Green, said: “I was a little nervous before I started, but it was fun and I’d definitely take part again.

“I found the trail through the icy mud a struggle, but it was all for a good cause.”

The hospice needs to raise �4.5million this year to provide its services.

Its next running challenge is the LV Brentwood half-marathon on March 22.

To sign up call 01708 771427 or email events@sfh.org.uk.