Team 'braving blisters' to mark 120 years of firm

Hikers set off from Filey Brigg in the drizzle

A team of hikers are walking 120km (74 miles) to mark the 120th anniversary of a telecoms service.

More than 40 members of the KCOM team set off from Filey Brigg earlier and are hoping to reach the head office in Hull city centre by Wednesday evening.

Event organiser Kylie Hill said they were "ready to brave the blisters" to raise money for three charities: HEY Children’s University, Hull and East Yorkshire Mind, and Age UK Hull & East Yorkshire.

KCOM began life as the Hull Municipal Corporation telephone department in 1904.

The walkers set off from Filey for the first leg of their hike

The challenge will take the hikers through the East Yorkshire Wolds, past what the organisers called "intriguingly named places" such as Spinney Fields, The Grits, Nut Wood, and Wharram le Street.

Olly Lockton, a member of the team, said: “I did have the odd second thought when I got up this morning at 04.30 and it was pitch black and wet – but I’m sure it’ll all be fine once we’ve set off and got into our stride."

Rose James, the chief executive of HEY Children’s University, said those taking part were "making a difference to local children" and would "help us to give them opportunities that they otherwise wouldn’t have".

KCOM is celebrating its 120th birthday with a number of events throughout this year.

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