A group of 12 friends have said their Three Peaks challenge was one of the hardest thing they've done – but well worth it as they raised �3,500 for autism causes.

Mulbarton mum Jenny Turner 29, organised the challenge for Autism Anglia and the special resource centre at Sprowston Infant School, Turtles, because of her five-year-old daughter, Chloe Jones', severe autism.

The trekkers finished the climb, despite blood, sweat and tears, and Mrs Turner said: 'It was quite horrendous at times and there was a lot of crying.

'Some of us found it much harder than others. But we knew we had to do it because it's for such a great cause.'

As well autism which prevents Chloe from speaking properly, she also has a growth disorder which leaves her measuring just 90cm, the same size as a three-year-old.

The team of 12 completed the climb which involves walking the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours.

One of the climbers, Mark Boggis, 38, from Thorpe St Andrew admitted that a few people on the trek said 'never again'.

But he added: 'It might not have been what everyone was expecting and was probably the hardest thing we have ever done, but it was such a laugh and so worth it for Chloe.'

Ms Turner described the difficulties with daughter's autism. She said: 'She has a very high-pitched scream, so when we're out lots of people look at us. But the school's special Turtles group for the autistic pupils has really helped her, and the money raised will go towards their sensory room.'

The other keen climbers included James Andrews, Jonny Myhill, Michael Knight, Danny Brain, Luke Jones, James Smith, Liann Read, Daniel Middleton, Rachel Cubitt and Susan Franey.

To help raise more money visit www.charitygiving.co.uk/ jenniferturner