A chiropodist's boots are made for walking and he's asking others to join him walking all over Yorkshire's three highest peaks to raise money for Francis House Children's Hospice 25th anniversary.
Nigel Bell, 64, from Wilmslow will be climbing Pen-y-Ghent (694m), Whernside (736m) and Ingleborough (723m) on Saturday 10th September.
The 25-mile challenge has been organised by Francis House Children's Hospice to mark the 25th anniversary of its opening in 1991.
Nigel has been a long-term supporter of the Hospice, first running the London marathon in 1991 in aid of Francis House Family Trust, which built the hospice.
He said: "It would be fantastic if as many people as possible could sign up to take part in the walk, especially as it's for the hospice's 25th anniversary. I've continued to raise money for the hospice through my business since it opened because I think it does wonderful work. I have treasured memories of shaking Princess Diana's hand at the official opening. Having worked in Chorlton for 35 years, I want to give something back to the community and take part in a significant milestone for the hospice. It's great to know that children who need help are being cared for by the charity, which couldn't survive without donations."
Always up for a challenge, Nigel is itching to get started as he hopes to complete the walk in under 12 hours with two of his sons, Cameron, 26, and Fraser, 30.
He added "We've been up Snowdon recently and I've been doing long walks to get myself ready, so I'm hoping to be able to make a good time, but I may need my sons to carry me over the line!"
Revd David Ireland, Chief Executive of Francis House, said: "The Yorkshire 3 Peaks is a very popular walk, and it's iconic for walkers. There is some beautiful scenery so people can have an enjoyable day out while also achieving something special for children with life-limiting conditions by raising money for the hospice. I'm sure people will feel very satisfied when they've completed it."
The Hospice is looking for more people to take part in the challenge on Saturday September 10, to help raise vital funds. To complete the challenge, walkers will need a moderate to high level of fitness. Qualified mountain leaders will guide groups of eight on the walk.
Businesses, groups and individuals can sign up online for a fee of £40 per person and the hospice is asking walkers to aim to raise £250 per person in sponsorship.
