Stepping Up: Team Cratus to take on the 2025 Public Sector Challenge: Peak Pursuit

This September, a team from Cratus will lace up their boots and head to the Peak District for this year’s Public Sector Challenge: Peak Pursuit. As a proud partner of the Public Sector Challenge, we’re thrilled to be taking part in an event that not only promotes collaboration and camaraderie but raises vital funds for two incredible charities: Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation.

The Challenge: More Than Just a Walk in the Peaks

The Public Sector Challenge is now a staple in the public sector calendar and for good reason. It brings together colleagues from across local government and beyond for a day of shared purpose, fresh air, and real connection. It’s a team-building experience like no other, wrapped up in some of Britain’s most beautiful countryside.

This year’s challenge takes place in the Peak District National Park, offering spectacular scenery and a physically demanding route designed to push participants, but also to inspire them. And with more than 600 public sector professionals and supporters coming together, it’s a unique opportunity to forge new connections and reinforce existing partnerships.

Meet Team Cratus

Our Cratus team this year is a mix of seasoned hikers, charity champions, and Peak District first-timers:

• Nick Kilby
• Sam Carmichael
• Marcus Stanway-Williams
• Harriet Shone
• Sydney Kwok
• Jake Shepherd

Supporting on the day, Pete Banks and Charlotte Platten – both members of the Public Sector Challenge Board – will be volunteering to ensure the event runs smoothly for all involved.

We asked a few of our team members what inspired them to get involved:

Marcus Stanway-Williams:

“I’ve always loved the outdoors and have great memories throughout my life of spending time in the countryside, especially the Yorkshire Dales. I’m excited to explore the Peak District, power through a big walk with my colleagues and meet some new people from across the Public Sector along the way!”

Pete Banks:

“For me, the Public Sector Challenge is more than just a physical activity; I’ve witnessed first-hand the impact of cancer and heart disease on loved ones. This challenge is my way of raising funds and awareness whilst doing some good.”

Sydney Kwok:

“I love an active activity and I’ve never been to the Peak District before so thought this would be the chance!”

Harriet Shone:

“What better way to support important causes and show solidarity with our Public Sector colleagues than to take on the great outdoors of Yorkshire? My whippet Misha will join the team and reconnect with his long-lost northern roots as we travail the highs and the lows of Britain’s most gorgeous countryside.”

Jake Shepherd:

“As a former public sector employee, I am proud of what the Public Sector Challenge has achieved and its potential to make a real difference whilst raising awareness. I am incredibly excited that this year’s challenge is taking place in Yorkshire Dales National Park, a beautiful landscape whose character and spirit encapsulates much of the public sector.”

Sam Carmichael:

“I couldn’t pass up the chance to take part in the Public Sector Challenge and support two brilliant charities tackling two of the toughest battles that many of us, or our loved ones, will ever face: cancer and heart disease. I’m looking forward to taking to the Peaks and challenging myself, both physically and mentally, all in aid of a fantastic cause.”

Join Us on the Journey

We’re proud to be part of this year’s Public Sector Challenge – not only walking the walk, but helping bring the event to life. Whether you’re taking part, volunteering, donating, or cheering from afar, your support makes a real difference.

You can donate to the Cratus team on GiveWheel by clicking here.