Pictured above: (l-r) Andy Walch, Andy Proctor, Simon Dexter, Sarah Fullaway, Matt Simpson, Liz Walch, Phil Gardner, Mike Simpson, Tony Lowe and James Walch

Just weeks after launching Derby's only high street mortgage and independent financial services company, a local financial adviser has set himself a new challenge - to saddle up with his walking boots in tow and raise funds for The Lymphoma Association and Downs Syndrome Derby.

Matt Simpson, who recently joined forces with Sarah Fullaway and Lee Mortimer to launch Avisa Financial Services, has assembled a team of Derby-based financial advisers to complete the Three Peaks Challenge - with a twist.

Matt and his team, which includes representatives from HMT Solicitors, Apollo Signs, Oodles and a paramedic, begin their challenge on 6 June and will have seven days to cycle more than 500 miles and climb 11,178 ft.  

They start by climbing Ben Nevis before cycling to the Lake District and climbing Scarfell Pike. The final leg of their gruelling journey will see them cycle to Wales and climb Snowdon! 

The team, some of whom are members of Oodles Cover, an organisation that brings financial advisers and charities together. Each time a customer of an Oodles member takes out a life insurance policy, critical illness cover or income protection, Oodles donates £100 to charity.

The team is hoping to raise funds for The Lymphoma Association and Downs Syndrome Derby. 

The Lymphoma Association is the only UK charity specialising in information and support for those suffering from lymphatic cancer and their families. Every hour of every day one person in the UK is diagnosed with lymphatic cancer, which is the sixth most common cancer. 

Downs Syndrome Derby was established 20 years ago and aims to make a positive difference for individuals with Down syndrome in East Midlands, by working with the individuals, families and the professionals involved in their development. 

Commenting on the challenge ahead, Matt Simpson said: "We are delighted to have already raised so much money for such a worthy cause and would like to thank everyone who has already sponsored us for our latest challenge.

"Although we are all anxious about the challenging distance, we are very excited about it and would be grateful to any help in assisting us with raising much needed funds, however small," added Matt.

To support Matt and the team, visit http://www.justgiving.com/oodles2010 where you can make a donation by debit or credit card.

With more than 35 years industry experience, Avisa is the only financial advisors in the city to have a high street presence and provide a range of independent financial services, including mortgage, life insurance, income protection, critical illness cover and home insurance.

Business AVISA, a separate division specialise in commercial finance, key man cover, shareholder protection, business loan protection and business insurance.