My latest challenge nears closer – reaching the highest point of all 100 UK counties on bike, foot and kayak in just over two months.
I will now be starting on Saturday 13th May, during Mental Health Week. The pressure is on!
Have I got what it takes? Thing is, I’ll never be truly ready. We just have to start and find a way. If it doesn’t scare you, it ain’t big enough… besides, I’m used to things going wrong 😉
Really chuffed that so many people have offered help and company when I’m in their neck of the woods. That’s what #ClimbTheUK is all about. Whilst I won’t have a support vehicle (only a support crew for kayaking to the Isle of Wight) I hope to get as many people involved as possible along the way.
I’m still busy plotting my precise route which, with 72 days and at least 4,000 miles, is taking quite a while, copious amounts of coffee, and hours of running to clear my head. From a logistical point of view, it was like trying to do a jigsaw without realising half the pieces were missing…
Oh, this is the bit where I ask for YOUR HELP…
- Do you work at a school? A youth group? A DofE group? A mental health group?
- Do you want to come along and join me for a walk/cycle/run?
- Does your business want to be part of the challenge?
- Want to kindly sponsor me with any spare change?
- Do you live on the route and have a good biscuit supply? Only joking… seriously, got any Custard Creams?
I want to get as many young people engaged as possible – whether it’s joining me, doing live Skype sessions with schools, or dropping in along the way.
Anyone is welcome to join me, whenever, wherever. My precise routes and timings will follow soon on a live tracking map courtesy of Viewranger so please keep an eye for details on my website…
To raise as much as poss for Young Minds, I am looking for businesses to sponsor a county top for as little as £100.
With the right support almost anything is possible. A big British thanks to Yorkshire Bank for sponsoring the three Yorkshire tops, and Czarnikow Group for sponsoring the two London tops. Both have heard my journey in speaking form, and I’m delighted to have them part of this one.
Big thanks also to Sharples Group, one of my Everest 2015 sponsors and continual supporters, and Rotary Club of Bentley Cheshire, for pledging their support for mental health too. Thanks as always to my head sponsors Westgrove Group for making it possible.
And of course, every £ counts for helping young people with mental health challenges get the understanding and support they desperately need. More people are speaking out, which is amazing, but what next? How do we get the help for people facing these issues? 100% of donations go to support Young Minds UK work, and all mean so much.
I ain’t no Prince Harry… but if Climb The UK inspires one person to speak out, seek help, and push on, then it’s worth every metre.
Jane Harrad-Roberts says
April 22, 2017 at 5:23 pmGo Alex!
Kate Smith says
April 22, 2017 at 6:50 pmHi Alex I spoke to my nephew about an interview but he said it would be tricky to justify it as you are not from that area of the BBC but I did try. With you all the way Kate
Colin says
April 22, 2017 at 7:12 pmAre you mad? Maybe your just nuts but I want to wish you all the very best Alex on your next adventure!
I hope to meet you in Devon somewhere with a packet of Custard Creams.
Colin
Mount Everest Facts
Dan pidcock says
April 23, 2017 at 7:44 amWe/you could get in touch with BBC 3 counties radio, they should like to do a piece as your 29 Jun day covers all 3 of their counties!
There is a daily show (Nick Coffer) that talks about issues and fund raising which would seem appropriate.
Rachel has spoken to them about the child growth foundation and has some contacts.
Great idea hope it all goes well!