The Calvert Bear 5 Peak Challenge has raised more than £26,000 for the Lake District Calvert Trust.
The challenge was organised by Keswick Rotary Club to help the charity, which was on the brink of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Calvert Trust launched a £1 million Bounce Back Appeal in December and raised over £730,000, allowing it to reopen.
Team Calvert Bear, comprising of seven Rotarians, Bassenthwaite Sailing Club’s commodore and led by Calvert Lakes’ furry mascot, Calvert Bear, set off on Wednesday to climb Dodd, Skiddaw and Latrigg, with a bike ride to Braithwaite, to then ascend Grizedale Pike and Barf, topped off with a canoe across Bassenthwaite Lake.
Outdoor survival expert and TV presenter Bear Grylls sent a message of support to the team earlier this month.
They completed the challenge in 13-and-a-half hours.
Challenge organiser and Keswick Rotary member Helen Hunt said: “I am feeling exhausted but incredibly proud of Team CB and what they have achieved.
“I would like to say thank you so much to the many of you who have supported us- it really is appreciated. We have raised over £26,000 to help Calvert Lakes fight back against COVID and to secure their immediate future.”
Calvert Lakes hopes to reopen its Calvert Lakes Activity Centre on Bassenthwaite Lake, later next month.
Calvert Lakes fundraising officer Rosie Cumella said: “We cannot thank Helen, the team and everyone who has supported this challenge enough for their incredible support and dedication to Calvert Lakes. This was a monumental challenge and they have done a fantastic job!
“The pandemic has had a huge impact on the Trust; this really will make a massive difference to us and our visitors.”
To support Team CB’s fundraising, visit their fundraising page: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/TheCalvertBearChallenge
