The Society is absolutely delighted to hear of the success of our friends at the Big Change and Virgin. Sam Branson and his team of passionate sidekicks completed their Virgin Strive Challenge last week, reaching the summit of the Matterhorn after striving there using nothing but their own steam. The group cycled, ran and hiked their way to the mountain's summit, raising money to support young people in the UK.

The group have so far managed to raise an incredible £635,500, alongside the memories made and friendships created.

Unfortunately, Sam suffered such serious altitude sickness that he had to be helicoptered to safety at the last minute. Remarkably, however, he waited until he had persevered through the intense pain in order to reach the summit - in our eyes, that is nothing short of inspirational. To have someone work so hard as to risk everything in the name of their passion, in the name of a good cause, and in the name of fundraising, speaks far more than any act of charity we have seen for a long while. Someone wouldn't be that courageous over nothing. If he, along with his entire team, are so dedicated to their cause, surely we should all get off our backsides and do something to make a difference.

We know that the challenge has changed the life of every participant, showing them exactly what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. We are sure that they will never be able to just sit on the sidelines again, and that you will take note of the personal satisfaction and long-running, widespread effects that the challenge has created. When is the next one?