Charity takes an 'active' approach to fundraising

Earlier this month, their annual hike departed from Bamburgh Castle taking in some of Northumberland’s iconic coastline and castles, where 54 people took part in the hike, led by some of the Climbing Out instructors and charity founder, Kelda Wood MBE.

Previous challenges have included climbing Snowdon, the Three Peaks Challenge, The Peak District Challenge, and walking a section of Hadrian's Wall.

The funds raised will go towards the charity’s five day residential programmes for people who have been through a life changing injury, illness or trauma. The programmes combine outdoor activities with personal development coaching to give people the tools to get their lives back on track post trauma.

Charity founder, Kelda Wood MBE, said: “Many of our previous challenges have involved hills, so this year we shook things up with a hike along the coast. There was less ascent but lots more miles.

“To walk along the beach as the sun came up on the east coast was magic. It was a fantastic day all round – so many smiles, so much sunshine and an incredible effort from everyone involved.”

The Climbing Out fundraising hike is held annually. There are three different routes to choose from, depending on your level of fitness. The charity asks each hiker to raise a minimum of £150, which includes qualified hike leaders, transport back to the start point, subsidised accommodation and some of the meals.

Kelda adds: “Everyone is welcome on our fundraising hike. It was great to welcome some friends and family of participants who wanted an insight in to the charity that had had such a big impact on their loved ones. It was a way of giving back and finding out what the charity is all about.

“Our hike is always finished off with a celebratory meal. We happened to be dining at the same pub as movie star, Jason Watkins, which was very surreal!

“Thank you to everyone who took part and all the people who donated to the hikers. The sum raised will help us to keep changing lives in 2025.”

The 2025 fundraising hike will take place on September 20 in Shropshire. “Our hikes have taken place all over the UK, so it feels extra special to be hosting one in Shropshire next year! We hope this will make for a record breaking turnout, with lots of our supporters coming from the local area. The route and registration forms will be released next year, so stay tuned for more details early next year.”

For more information on Climbing Out visit climbingout.org.uk

By Your World Contributor