It was back in 2002 that I first had the idea of raising money for ME North East by attempting to climb within one year all 214 fells listed by Wainright in his series “The Lakeland Fells”.

Three years, an angioplasty (for heart disease) and a prostatectomy (for cancer) later, I was finally ready to go, on April 1st of all dates! I rang my daughter to tell her I was at that moment climbing Great Cockup, she thought it was an April Fool! Perhaps she has a point and I’m really pushing my luck, but no - Great Cockup is now in the bag.

At the end of April and after two long weekends in the lakes, both blessed with good weather, I have 35 fells under my belt, which leaves me just 179 to go! I calculate that so far I've covered 83 miles and climbed 22,600 feet - almost the height of Everest - and apart from aching legs for a week after each trip, I’ve had no ill effects and have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge. Will it last? Will the weather continue to be kind? Or will Great Cockup get its revenge? Next instalment in the next issue of this newsletter.

Steve Larkin

We are indebted to Steve for such a courageous attempt. To fight back from not just one but two major health problems is an achievement in itself - to take up the challenge to complete this mammoth task is commendable.
We wish him lots of luck and very good health and if you would like to help sponsor him - please ring the office for full details and a sponsor form.