Cumbria Crack’s columnist Fell Foodie is the subject of a new documentary about how the fells helped save his life.
Harrison Ward began his journey towards leading a life as a cook, hiker and motivational speaker in 2016.
Cumbrian born and bred, Harrison, who lives in Grasmere, struggled with mental health issues from a young age. He turned to drinking as a coping mechanism and by his 20s was overweight, a heavy smoker and drank 20 pints a day.
Six years ago he realised enough was enough and vowed to get sober. He began using fell walking as a way to get himself back into shape and to overcome his demons. He also began posting on social media about the culinary delights he cooks in the hills.
Today he has made a career out of hiking into the fells and cooking high quality meals on basic camping equipment. He is sponsored by a number of brands – including Volvo – and regularly gives motivational talks to businesses, as well as appearing at food and outdoor festivals around the country.
For the last four years Harrison and Preston-based videographer Garth Dew, of GD Video, have been working on a documentary telling his story.
Now the film, Fixed by the Fells, is ready for its premiere and will be shown for the first time at the Alpkit store in Keswick at 6pm on Friday.
Harrison said: “It’s incredible to finally be at the point of releasing the documentary after it has been so long in the making.
“Garth first contacted me in 2018 but the interruptions due to COVID and lockdown delayed filming and the final screening until now.”
The film features in-depth interviews with Harrison, plus shots of him doing what he loves best in the Lake District.
The screening will include talks from Garth and Harrison, as well as a Q&A session.
Harrison said: “I’m feeling very excited about the screening. I’m really grateful to Garth for giving me the opportunity and it has been great to work alongside him on the project.
“As always, I hope that by sharing my story I can help others who may be struggling to reach out for help themselves and encourage people to look out for the mental health of their friends and family. I wouldn’t be where I am without the support of others.”
All proceeds from the event will go towards the Alpkit Foundation.
To buy tickets, visit https://alpkit.com/products/fell-foodie-film-premiere-talk-and-q-a
