Architects skydive and cycle 250 miles in record charity year

Why it matters: The money will fund mental health counselling sessions and skills training programmes for young people who need support when life feels tough. Inspire works with more than 7,000 under-25s every year across Suffolk.

The details: The firm's 'Big Charity Year' began with a golf day at Seckford Hall before ramping up in May when team members Vanessa and Lewis strapped on parachutes for a tandem skydive at Beccles Airfield. The challenges escalated with a three-day, 250-mile cycling expedition through the Netherlands, then scaled new heights with the Welsh Three Peaks. The fundraising marathon concluded in December with an Oktoberfest party at Inspire's dome venue in Lindbergh Road, where 400 guests celebrated the team's efforts.

What they're saying: Bryan Wybrow, director of KLH Architects, said: "The team spirit that has evolved as we've taken part in our charity events is a credit to our team and is recognised in the amazing sum we've been able to donate."

Andy Crump, chief executive of Inspire, said: "This support is about so much more than the money. It will give young people access to the mental health support they need when life feels tough. It will help them build the skills and confidence for work and independence."

For context: Inspire is a Suffolk charity dedicated to empowering under 25s to achieve a better future. The £35,330 raised by KLH Architects represents the highest amount the firm's team has ever raised for its annual charity of the year.

The bottom line: A year of ambitious fundraising challenges by an Ipswich architecture firm will fund counselling sessions and skills programmes helping young people across Suffolk build confidence and face whatever comes next.