Pictured: (l-r) Matthew Finch, Sonyanett Parker, Linda & Derek Finch at the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain

As the year comes to an end one Wythall family will remember 2011 more than most.

After extensive chemo and radiotherapy following cervical cancer surgery mom Linda Finch regained fitness after some "dark and scary months" then set about raising money for Cancer Research UK. 

Setting her sights on climbing the 1995 feet to the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain in Monmouthshire, Linda persuaded husband Derek, daughter Sonyanett and son Matt along with girlfriend Abby to help her take on the challenge.

On reaching the top Derek commented: "Completing the climb to the summit meant so much to Linda, signaling victory over the illness which affected her and continues to affect the lives of so many others. After all she'd been through this was very much her own personal challenge and one we all got behind with the fantastic result of raising so much for such a worthy charity.

"The progress and development in cancer research and the consequent treatment and care relies very much on the generosity of others to ensure the work goes on, Linda is thrilled she has been able to make a small yet significant difference to keep funding vital research."

The family managed to exceed their original target raising £350 from workmates and friends whilst receiving a further £200 donation from the Redditch office of Derek's company, Pertemps People Development Group after colleagues suggested providing additional support from their payroll giving scheme.

"I've suddenly discovered climbing," said a delighted Linda. "Since Sugar Loaf, I've been back to climb Pen-Y Fan in the Brecons and even have climbing Snowden in my sights for 2012. It's particularly important we do things together as a family, this way we all feel the benefit of healthy exercise and supporting one another. I'd encourage anyone who's been through a similar experience to feel better by enjoying the spectacular countryside around us." 

PPDG encourages staff to get involved with local fundraising and is extremely proud of its extensive community support programme having recently surpassed the £150,000 milestone of giving back through payroll donations since its launch in 2004.

Paula Young, spokeswoman for Cancer Research UK in the West Midlands, said: "We're thrilled to hear that Linda has not only come through treatment but managed to complete this challenge so soon afterwards. She's an inspiration.

"Thanks to research that more people than ever before are surviving cancer but much more needs to be done. Our research is funded entirely by the public which is why we're especially grateful to people like Linda and her family for their support."

For more information about Pertemps People Development Group, please visit their website here: www.ppdg.co.uk