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GCC employees take on Wye Valley marathon hike to raise funds for Macmillan charity

They did it!

Four GCC employees completed the Macmillan Mighty hike in the stunning Wye Valley.

On the 9th September, in the blistering heat, a group of GCC employees took on the challenge to hike a marathon across the Wye Valley, to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support charity.

To say we’re proud of their accomplishment is an understatement.

Eric, Ashley, Matt and Pauline hiked the Wye Valley Marathon in support of Macmillan Cancer Support.

A truly fantastic cause!

What the hikers had to say…

Eric’s words on completing the hike…


“I’m delighted to say I have completed my first ever Marathon!

OK, it was a hike, but it was a brutal hike with some severe climbs, in roasting hot weather!

My feet are badly blistered, but the company of Matt and Ashley really helped with battling the pain barrier in the last 5 miles.”

I hiked to remember my Dad. My dad was truly an inspiration and completed countless marathons, but unfortunately I didn’t inherit his running genes.”

Ashley’s words on completing the hike…


“The hike was extremely testing, both mentally and physically! My motivation was my colleagues, who I walked with – we were one team and we felt like we could break through any barriers, if we put our minds to it.

I was also constantly thinking of the people who need and rely upon Macmillan. Battling cancer is a long road and it can feel like you have an impossible journey ahead. Macmillan help families to battle this on a daily basis – a fantastic cause, that I am proud to support.”

Matt’s words on completing the hike…


“My dad is a man of few words, but Macmillan gave him the advice, support and comfort that he needed to process the news and how to cope with daily life.

Knowing Macmillan were there for us has enormous value and they are a cause that I wish to support continuously, so they can assist anyone who needs them.”

Pauline’s words on completing the hike…


“I have memories of people close to me, who had a really tough time going through Cancer. Walking this challenge was a lovely way for me to remember these friends, colleagues and family members and all the support given to them on their journey.

I am proud to know that the funds I raised by completing this challenge will be donated to Macmillan Cancer support to help them continue all of their invaluable work.”


From all at GCC well done to Eric, Matt, Ashley and Pauline – the determination and team work all paid off.

A great personal achievement for all you, whilst supporting a deserving cause.

We are all very proud of you!


Meet the hikers!

Eric Belshaw

Eric has been an employee with GCC since 2017 – providing Sage 200 technical support to our customers.

If you’d like to read more about Eric’s inspiration for doing the Macmillan Charity Hike and contribute to the cause, you can find Eric’s fundraising page here.

Ashley Smith

Ashley has been an employee with GCC since 2022 – working on the technical side of delivering infrastructure projects.

If you’d like to read more about Ashley’s inspiration for doing the Macmillan Charity Hike and contribute to the cause, you can find Ashley’s fundraising page here.

Matt Grundy

Matt has been an employee with GCC since 2022 – joining the GCC Support Team as a Junior Service Desk Engineer.

If you’d like to read more about Matt’s inspiration for doing the Macmillan Charity Hike and contribute to the cause, you can find Matt’s fundraising page here.

Pauline Lindeque

Pauline has been an employee with GCC since 2021 – proving Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM support and consultancy to our customers.

If you’d like to read more about Pauline’s inspiration for doing the Macmillan Charity Hike and contribute to the cause, you can find Pauline’s fundraising page here.

Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan’s purpose is to do whatever it takes to support people living with cancer – with millions of supporters, professionals, volunteers and campaigners across the charity.

For more information on Macmillan Cancer Support, visit their webpage.