A Harrogate-based Community Interest Company is taking on a gruelling 24-hour challenge at one of North Yorkshire's most recognisable landmarks to raise money for children and families.
A team from the Sporting Influence Foundation will climb and descend Roseberry Topping at Great Ayton 24 times in 24 hours, starting at midday on Saturday 3rd October.
The challenge will see the group tackle around 40 miles on foot and approximately 16,000ft (4,900m) of elevation, which is almost half the height of Mount Everest.
Sporting Influence Foundation director Chris Doey admits the challenge will be a test of both physical and mental endurance:
"It's going to be hard and I'm going to keep fighting, and I'm going to do it for these people that need our help and just put a bit of publicity out there for them."
Staff members will be joined by friends, partners and people from local schools, who all aim to complete the climb once every hour, although they know the schedule could become increasingly difficult as the night goes on.
The Sporting Influence Foundation was founded in 2020 and works to create opportunities for children and young people who face barriers to taking part in sport, and while the challenge is designed to raise £2,000, Chris says there's a wider message behind taking on something so demanding:
"The Sporting Influence Foundation are here to support children and families that are in need. Not always financial need, just any need. We are doing it to raise some money through fundraising, but just to let people know that we are there and things are difficult. Sometimes life is hard and you've got to keep fighting."
Money raised will help the Foundation provide free places at holiday camps and after-school clubs for children facing financial hardship, alongside inclusive sporting opportunities through its SportABILITY programme and girls' participation projects through Play2EmpowHER.
The organisation also provides memorable experiences, wellbeing activities and community projects for children who may otherwise miss out.
Chris says demand for that support can increase at this time of year, as families begin looking ahead to October half-term and Christmas.
"It's not always financial. There are a lot of families that we support who are going through illnesses in the family, some that have moved to the area due to circumstances that they can't control, and just need that little bit of help to get started. Let the children find new friends while they settle down in the area."
The Foundation is also appealing to local businesses for support, either through donations or practical help during the 24-hour challenge.
Harrogate Spring Water and Bettys have already donated water and caffeine supplies, while the team is looking for businesses who could contribute items such as food, head torches or other equipment to help them through the night.
Anyone wanting to support the challenge can do so via the JustGiving page.
Listen to Your Harrogate's Pete Egerton speaking to Chris below.
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