A team of 14 adventurers from Camelot, the Watford-based operator of The National Lottery, has returned from a nine-day trek of the Great Wall of China for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Following almost 10 months of fundraising activities, several weeks of preparation and nine days being immersed in Chinese culture, the team agreed that it had been a once-in-a-lifetime experience, which was well worth all of the effort.

The total raised by everyone who tackled the Great Wall trek for Marie Curie this year is in excess of £100,000 and, of that total, Team Camelot is set to contribute more than £49,000, which will translate to 2,450 hours of nursing care in Hertfordshire.

Camelot Community Affairs Manager, Ruth Horwitz, said: "The whole trip was truly memorable, and a challenge for everyone in different ways. Some found the trekking difficult, with tough climbs in the heat of the day, while others found being so far away from loved ones at home and the alternative culture a test.

"The food was brilliant, although at times a little surprising. Eating chicken feet was one of the funniest experiences, whereas enjoying a proper Peking duck meal in Beijing was one of the best.

"The group dynamic was absolutely amazing and we could not have got on any better. After nine days of support during the day, and very funny moments at the campsite at night, some very good and hopefully long-lasting friendships have been made.

"Lastly, I must mention the Great Wall - having seen all sides to it, the old and crumbled, the newly restored and the slightly worn, there is only one word to describe it - incredible. The history associated with it, the beauty around it and the sheer scale were awe-inspiring."

If you are inspired and would like to take part in this life-changing challenge, Marie Curie Cancer Care is holding a Great Walk of China trek in May 2014.

Open to anyone over the age of 18, the trip has limited availability so it is advisable to register early to avoid disappointment. Registration costs £299 and everyone is asked to raise a minimum sponsorship of £3,000.

The trek aims to raise £120,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care, with £180 paying for a nine-hour shift for a Marie Curie nurse in a patient’s home, or £435 for the cost of caring for in-patients at our Marie Curie Hospices.

For further information, call 01604 442313.