Intrepid garden industry team to tackle Kilimanjaro for Greenfingers Charity
A fearless team of 17 fundraisers from the garden retail and horticultural world will take on Mount Kilimanjaro in June 2026 — all to raise money for the Greenfingers Charity, which creates therapeutic gardens for children’s hospices across the UK. Standing at 5,895 metres, Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s most iconic and challenging climbs.
The adventure runs from 10th to 21st June 2026 and will take participants through diverse landscapes — from lush rainforest to alpine desert and the stark, icy summit plateau. The final push involves a gruelling overnight climb, timed so the team can witness the sunrise from Africa’s highest point, a moment many describe as unforgettable.
The group includes leading figures from the industry such as GIMA President Kate Ebbens, Phillippa and Libby Stubbs of British Garden Centres, Heidi Baylis Towse representing Greenfingers and Blue Diamond, Greenfingers Ambassador Bob Marley, Alexa Blackmore and Sarah Edmondson from The Gardens Group, Matt Jones of Sipcam with his partner Nicola, Daniel, Jodie, and Matthew Rowlandson, Tara Adams from AMES, Nicole and David Higginson of New Leaf Plants, and Richard Howard of Doddington Nurseries with partner Tia Blunt.
Organised by Charity Challenge, the seven-day trek will test the team’s endurance at high altitude. But each step will be fuelled by the shared goal of creating magical outdoor spaces for children and families, giving them moments of joy and peace during difficult times.
Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at Greenfingers, said: “The Kilimanjaro challenge is the ultimate test, both physically and emotionally, but the impact is immeasurable. Standing at the summit, knowing you’ve helped create therapeutic gardens, is a reward like no other.”
Supporters can donate via the team’s JustGiving page. More information about Greenfingers Charity is available at greenfingerscharity.org.uk, with updates shared on Instagram and LinkedIn (@Greenfingerscharity), Facebook (facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity), and Twitter (@GreenfingersCha).