The Challenge

Pen-y-Ghent was one of my dad’s favourite places, he walked it countless times throughout his life. It was somewhere he felt calm, strong and at home.

The morning he last walked the mountain was clear and cold. After days of poor weather, the sky had lifted. The sun was bright, frost lay across the ground and the air was crisp. It was perfect walking weather.

These were the conditions my dad loved most, walking a path he had taken many times before…at ease in a place that meant a great deal to him.

He never reached the summit that day, he passed away on the mountain.

That been said, his final walk was peaceful and he was exactly where he wanted to be.

This challenge is my way of returning to that same path. This isn’t about speed or records. It’s about love, resilience, strength and completing something unfinished for Dad.

Why I’m doing this

My dad was 56 years old, fit and strong. He took great pride in looking after his health. Losing him so suddenly was a reminder that life can change without warning, even for those who seem well and active.

By taking on this challenge, I want to honour him in a way that feels true to who he was. Through strength, determination and purpose…while raising money for a cause that means a great deal to me.

Walk with me

Although I will be completing the challenge carrying the full 56kg, anyone is more than welcome to walk alongside me on the day.

Pen-y-ghent is an incredible walk, with stunning views across the Yorkshire Dales. It’s a well-known route and a brilliant introduction to mountain walking. Children and families are welcome, as long as they are comfortable with the distance and conditions (it will roughly take 2.5hrs, 10km).

This isn’t just a personal challenge, it’s a shared walk on a mountain that means a lot to our family.

As we pass the spot where my Dad passed, there will be the opportunity to write a short message on a stone; a name, a thought or a few words and place it carefully with others as we walk past. A simple, quiet way to remember Phil.

There’s no obligation to reach the summit. People are welcome to walk as feels right for them and turn back when they choose.

The Charity

All funds raised will go to The Elizabeth Foundation, a charity that supported me as a kid and one I am now proud to be a patron of.

The Elizabeth Foundation does incredible work supporting young deaf children and their families and it means so much to me to be able to give back through this challenge.

Thanks for taking the time to read this and for supporting me as I finish the climb for my Dad❤️