Community members from Emmaus Mossley have raised more than £1,000 for Oldham Mountain Rescue Team (OMRT).

Formerly homeless people supported by the charity (known as companions) and staff members from Emmaus Mossley had set themselves the challenge of a 15k cycle ride and 10k run to raise funds for OMRT.

Matt Neild, Team Leader at Oldham Mountain Rescue Team, said: “Huge thanks to everyone at Emmaus for their efforts over the past few weeks in support of Oldham MRT. The money that has been raised will be a massive benefit as get all the equipment tidied and repaired following our extensive work to help tackle the recent moorland fires.”

A team of eight completed a 15k cycle ride around Saddleworth on Sunday 17 June and a group of six Emmaus runners completed the Mossley 10k on Sunday 15 July. The people who took part in the run received weekly training and support from members of Mossley AFC Running Club.

Paul, companion at Emmaus Mossley, said: “I was a bit nervous but excited at the start of the Mossley 10k and then relieved when I finished it. I couldn’t have done it without the help and encouragement of Mossley AFC Running Club.

“I love that we have raised so much for Oldham MRT for all the work they do locally, especially with the recent moorland fires. Thank you to everyone who has supported us.”

Emmaus Mossley supports 26 companions by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. The concept of solidarity, getting involved in volunteering and helping groups in need, is a central ethos of Emmaus and a motivation for the companions who completed the OMRT fundraising challenge.

Alison Hill, Director of Emmaus Mossley, said: “I am so proud of everyone who has taken part in the solidarity fundraising activities for Oldham MRT. As well as the personal achievements of completing the challenge they have also hit their fundraising target with the generous donations from Emmaus Mossley supporters.

“Thank you to all those who have donated to our appeal and to members of Mossley AFC Running Club for their kind support and training leading up to the Mossley 10k run.”

To find out more or support Emmaus Mossley head to www.emmaus.org.uk/mossley. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 01457 838608 or visit the store at Longlands Mill, Queen Street, Mossley OL5 9AH.