Panache Cruises group reach Mount Kilimanjaro summit in six days

Panache Cruises has reached its fundraising target for Reuben’s Retreat with more than £60,000 raised after a group of its employees climbed Mount Kilimanjaro.

A group of 15 from the Chorley-based luxury cruise agency successfully climbed 5,895m to the summit of Africa’s tallest mountain over six days, beginning the ascent on June 4 and completing it on June 10.

Donations to the agency’s JustGiving page have so far reached £60,092, surpassing the £50,000 target chief executive James Cole set back in February.

Cole, who took part in the climb, had pledged to raise the amount for the Glossop-based charity in February to mark his 50th birthday year.

The agency additionally donated £10 for every booking made in 2025 and has been asking customers if they would like to match it.

Panache Cruises has also raised a further £15,255 on a separate JustGiving page for other fundraising activities.

Charlie Cole, a 17-year-old apprentice with the agency and son of James Cole who participated in the climb, said: “The overall experience of the trip was a great adventure.

“I’m so glad I climbed it and the views at the top, especially at night, were out of this world.” 

He added: “The toughest day was the summit day, but we gave it our all and made it.

“People suffered from altitude sickness, but I was very proud that everyone powered through.”