Farmers prepare for Three Peaks epic

A hardy bunch of Alnwick Young Farmers are gearing up for a gruelling charity mission, in memory of an inspirational 25-year-old who died last year.
By The Newsroom
Published 5th Feb 2016, 05:00 BST
Some of the Alnwick Young Farmers who are taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge are pictured in training for the fund-raiser.Some of the Alnwick Young Farmers who are taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge are pictured in training for the fund-raiser.
Some of the Alnwick Young Farmers who are taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge are pictured in training for the fund-raiser.

In May, 15 intrepid members of the group will be tackling the Three Peaks Challenge – to climb the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales in just 24 hours.

The gang are taking on the arduous feat in honour of brave farmer Stu Ridley, who lost his five-month battle with an inoperable brain tumour in July. They hope to raise money for The Brain Tumour Charity, as well as the Great North Air Ambulance Service, and have set a target of £2,000.

Stu Ridley playing the sport he loved.Stu Ridley playing the sport he loved.
Stu Ridley playing the sport he loved.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad
Most Popular

Jess Straker, secretary of Alnwick Young Farmers, said: “I think the Three Peaks will be a big challenge for all of us.

“We are active people, but this is taking our fitness to another level. It will bring us closer as a group of friends and hopefully raise a lot of money and awareness for our chosen charities.”

The group is training hard for the epic challenge to try to conquer Ben Nevis (1,344metres high), in Scotland, the Welsh mountain of Snowdon (1,085m) and England’s Scafell Pike (978m).

As part of their quest, the Young Farmers are appealing to local businesses to sponsor and help the team, whether it be through the donation of equipment, food or transport for the event. Anyone who is interested should email Jess at [email protected]Alternatively, to make a cash donation to the group, visit www.sponsorme.co.uk/jessstraker/alnwickyfc3peaks.aspxStu was a talented rugby player and a member of Bellingham Young Farmers. His bravery during his ordeal captured the hearts of many, including a host of celebrities.

Stu Ridley playing the sport he loved.Stu Ridley playing the sport he loved.
Stu Ridley playing the sport he loved.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In June, rugby legend Jonny Wilkinson visited him at the family farm near Hexham. The Stay Strong Stu campaign had raised more than £200,000 for charity at the time of his death.

Stu was honoured with a special Judges Award at the Best of Northumberland Awards in September.

Related topics:ScotlandEnglandWales