A mum-of-three from Goudhurst has braved temperatures of minus 28 to trek through snow and ice for charity.

Caroline Richards even took several unexpected plunges into icy water during the 230km Ice Ultra challenge in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK.

The 46-year-old extreme runner raised more than £3,000 during her five-day walk in Sweden, where she spent nights in shared teepees, sleeping on reindeer hides directly on the snow, or in wooden huts with stoves.

Carrying all her equipment, Mrs Richards covered 30 miles a day as part of a small team, which included her friend Mimi Anderson, a grandmother from Smarden, near Ashford, who was the world record holder for Ice Ultra in 2007.

Following tracks left by a snowmobile, and only able to stop at checkpoints every 10km, Mrs Richards developed painfully swollen ankles from walking in snowshoes.

She said: "This was a real challenge. We would stumble gingerly across the fragile layer of surface ice along the route and then unexpectedly sink into the freezing water below.

"Fully clad and with heavy backpacks and no walking poles, extricating ourselves was pretty problematic, and the cold was traumatic to the system, but in my case felt strangely refreshing for my inflamed ankles.

"Afterwards the risk of frostbite with sodden feet and hands made the sight of a checkpoint teepee with hot water and fire particularly welcome."

But happily one lighter moment will remain with her for years to come.

She added: "On the last night in our giant teepee as I braved the minus 26 degree temperature to go outside I noticed the tall wigwam shape of the teepee glowing red from the heat of the fire inside.

"I also saw overhead the very distinct constellation of The Great Bear in a clear sky and the wavering green gleam of the Northern Lights as others slept inside.

"This image made the whole experience worthwhile."

Rebecca Futrall, regional fundraising officer for Alzheimer’s Research UK, described Caroline as a true inspiration.

You can donate via Caroline's JustGiving page.