A couple from the Lake District are inviting keen walkers from around the region to take on a unique challenge in order to raise funds for a cause which is very close to their hearts. Becki Vale and Dan Fylan-Smith, who run the activity break specialists, Into The Outside, are planning The Lakes 3000’s on March 7 2020. The event, which involves hiking all of England’s four mountains over 3000 feet in just 12 hours, is to raise funds for the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF).
“CLDF is a charity we knew nothing about until the ray of light who is Hudson Penning joined our family last summer,” explains Becki, who is Hudson’s cousin. “Hudson has been diagnosed with the rare Alagille Syndrome which affects his liver as well as other vital organs. The support that CLDF has given his parents and the incredible network of families it has put them in touch with has been invaluable.
“We want to raise awareness of Hudson’s condition and other liver conditions so that people can see how much CLDF’s support can help families living with these challenges. Hudson is hands down the happiest little boy we have ever met. He takes relentless medication, appointments, prodding and poking all in his stride and wears a smile constantly whilst he does it. His parents have left no stone unturned as they learn about his condition and how they can best support him.
“We wanted to do something to enable CLDF to continue making tough situations like Hudson’s diagnosis more manageable and make sure no one affected by children’s liver disease feels alone in their journey. That’s why we came up with the Lakes 3000’s!”
The challenge involves taking on the four mountain giants in the Lake District National Park, Skiddaw (3,054ft), Helvellyn (3,117ft), Scafell (3,162ft) and Scafell Pike (3,209ft) in 12hrs walking time or less.
“It’s a real challenge which will involve 24 kilometres of walking over difficult terrain and exposure to the mountain elements for an extended period of time,” continues Becki. “However, we know that Lake District walkers do not shy away from a challenge!”
Participants will tackle the challenge in three stages, beginning with Scafell Pike and ending with Skiddaw, driving between the start points for each stage.
“People can enter either as an individual and take on all three stages, or in teams of three where each team member does one stage each,” says Becki. It will be an early 5am start on the Saturday so participants will need to stay in or around Keswick on the Friday night. We’ll aim to be down from our final mountain by 8pm when we’ll return to Keswick to refuel at the local pub and recognise everyone’s achievements!
“To take part in an event of this nature would normally cost £155 per person but because this is such a special event, and our wonderful guides are giving their time for free, we are just asking for £30 per individual or £90 per team to be involved. This will cover the guides, safety provision, hot drinks, t-shirts and minibus transport. We are hoping that as many people as possible will seize this opportunity for a unique experience which will raise much-needed funds for a fantastic cause.”
Alison Taylor, Chief Executive of Children’s Liver Disease Foundation commented: “CLDF is the only UK charity dedicated to fighting all childhood liver diseases, by providing information and emotional support, funds for research and a voice for all those affected. In order to do this however, we rely on voluntary donations, so we are delighted and truly grateful to hear what Becki and Dan have planned. It sounds an amazing challenge and we hope that everyone who supports us in this way thoroughly enjoys the experience.”
To find out more about The Lakes 3000’s or to book your place email intotheoutside@hotmail.co.uk.
