Bear Grylls is backing an event to raise cash for the Lake District Calvert Trust.
The Calvert Bear 5 Peak Challenge is organised by Keswick Rotary Club to help the charity, which was on the brink of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.
It launched a £1 million Bounce Back Appeal in December and raised over £730,000, allowing it to reopen.
Keswick Rotary said 2021 was also set to be extremely financially challenging for the Calvert Trust, so it had committed to a final push for funds. The club has supported the trust since its foundation 40 years ago.
On May 26, members of Team Calvert Bear, will each aim to complete a tough 21-mile circuit of local peaks after which the Calvert Lakes activity teams are named – Dodd, Skiddaw, Latrigg, Grisedale Pike and Barf – using cycles and canoes to travel between the mountain ranges.
Calvert Bear, the furry mascot of Calvert Lakes, contacted his idol, outdoor survival expert Bear Grylls, for help in motivating his team to get fit for the challenge.
Chief Scout Bear responded by saying: “An epic challenge that will help so many people… I admire all those embarking on this adventure so much.”
Organiser of the Calvert Bear 5 peak Challenge, Helen Hunt, said: “All of us in Team Calvert Bear are thrilled that Bear Grylls recognises the importance of Calvert Lakes and our efforts to help them overcome the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
“Our hearts are big but our athletic prowess leaves something to be desired. When this challenge starts to hurt, Bear’s words of encouragement will spur us on. We are tirelessly fundraising to support this local charity that, with their world class specialist facilities and equipment, makes the outdoors accessible to so many people with disabilities.
“No contribution is too small to help those deprived for so long of the freedom of the outdoors; every penny of sponsorship counts towards ensuring that Calvert Lakes has a long-term future.”
To donate, visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/TheCalvertBearChallenge
