A GYM owner climbed a mountain carrying a fridge to raise money for a mental health charity in memory of his friend.

Ashley Wood, founder of Funk Fitness in Winsford, led a team of 64 of his gym members up Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) to raise money for Mid Cheshire Mind.

He was inspired to do so following the death of his friend James Fisher, who took his own life last year.

“He had some demons that absolutely nobody was aware of, it was a complete shock,” Ashley said.

“It has always played on my mind. I remember seeing him a week before in Northwich and I just think, could I have organised to do something and maybe it would have made a difference. You just can’t help but think that.

“So, I just thought we needed to do something to raise awareness for mental health and to get the word out their for people who aren’t sure who to talk to when they’re struggling.”

Northwich Guardian: Ashley took on the challenge in memory of his friend, James FisherAshley took on the challenge in memory of his friend, James Fisher (Image: Supplied)

Ashley, 37, met James when he hired him as a chef at Lean Body Kitchen.

The fitness-minded restaurant on Witton Street, Northwich, closed down during Covid but the pair stayed in touch.

Sadly, in October 2023, James took his own life.

Wanting to ensure others get the support they need, Ashley organised for members at Funk Fitness to climb Snowdon carrying a combined 1,000kg of sand – a representation of the weight people can feel when struggling with their mental health.

Ashley meanwhile decided to carry a fridge as a reminder of how he and James met.

On Saturday (May 18) the 65-strong team climbed Snowdon, having raised nearly £4,000 for Mid Cheshire Mind.

Ashley said: “It was hard but it was worth it.

“Knowing what we were doing it for and seeing everybody else getting on with it inspired me.”

Northwich Guardian: Ashley is already thinking about next year's challengeAshley is already thinking about next year's challenge (Image: Supplied)

Ashley, who has never organised such an event before, is already looking ahead to 2025.

He added: “Everybody’s on cloud nine at the minute, asking what we are doing next.

“The plan would be to do something big every May for Mental Health Awareness Week.”

For more information about Funk Fitness' challenge or to donate, visit www.justgiving.com/page/ashley-wood-1709905124698.