FOUR intrepid walkers are to embark on a gruelling challenge – to attempt to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks three times within 36 hours.

Former teacher, Derek Radcliffe, and his sons Liam and Calum, will join forces with good friend, Chris Cariss, to walk the 75 milesto raise funds for Nell Bank Outdoor Education Centre, near Ilkley.

Eighteen months ago they successfully completed it twice in horrendous conditions in just over 20 hours, raising £3750 for the centre.

Derek said: “We won't be claiming a world record time for this challenge as Sam Whitaker and Ryan Weston-Bennett completed it in 23 hours 18 mins in 2018, but maybe, at almost 64 years of age, I will be able to set a record for the oldest person to complete it.

“We wanted to do something again for this wonderful charity. I brought children to the centre for many years as a teacher. My two sons, who are also doing the challenge, came with school and on work experience. It really is a special place that makes such a positive impact on so many children's lives.”

Every year thousands of walkers attempt the Three Peaks Challenge just once and many fail to complete the course.

Derek and his team, who all live in Bingley, will face a total ascent of 6,459 metres during their walk, the equivalent of climbing over two-thirds of the way up Everest.

The challenge will begin on May 28 in Horton-in-Ribblesdale.

The money raised will help to ensure the Nell Bank Charitable Trust is able to subsidise visits to the centre for disadvantaged children, helping them to learn to love the outdoors and reap all benefits which time spent in the countryside can bring.

Dan Goodey, Head of Centre at Nell Bank, said: “This is an extraordinary challenge. The thought of doing the Yorkshire Three Peaks once would be enough for most, but three times  - incredible.

"As an independent charity, the Nell Bank Charitable Trust is enormously grateful for the support from Derek, Liam, Calum and Chris, and we wish them every bit of luck with this remarkable fundraising attempt.”

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