Dedicated fundraisers are swapping the comfort of a stately home for the rigours of a Lake District challenge.

Ten staff from Castle Howard, near Malton, are about to take part in a gruelling walk to raise funds for the BBC's Children in Need appeal.

They will be joining others on Friday for the High Ridge Challenge, on some of the country's highest peaks.

They will be tackling ridges in the Coniston Fells, from Tilberthwaite to Wetherlam, Swirl How, Brim Fell and, finally, the Old Man of Coniston before returning to Coniston via Dow Crag.

The annual event is organised by Sheffield businessman Graeme Chapman, who has been awarded a MBE for his services to the charity.

Over the past 17 years, he has raised £400,000 for Children in Need.

This will be the sixth year that Castle Howard has taken part. Last year, the staff raised more than £4,000.

The team will be headed by estate manager Duncan Peake who said: "The November weather is not going to put us off and the team is in good spirits."