A Cumbrian man’s ultra running challenge has raised over £3,000 for hospice charities.
The Rev David Sargent, of Penrith-based Eden Runners, completed the Joss Naylor Lakeland Challenge and raised £2,805 for Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland and £1,000 for Hospice at Home on the Wirral, Merseyside.
The gruelling 50-mile route, devised by fell running icon Joss Naylor, takes runners from Pooley Bridge to Wasdale over some of the Lake District’s most challenging peaks, with over 17,000 feet of ascent.
David completed the challenge in just under 16 hours, supported along the way by friends from Eden Runners, Keswick AC, and Borrowdale Fell Runners, as well as a logistics team stationed at key road crossings.
The Joss Naylor Lakeland Challenge is designed for veteran fell runners, with additional time allowances for older participants and a stipulation that all contenders raise funds for charity.
David said: “I am deeply grateful to all who very generously donated to support hospice at home in our community.
“We all recognise and appreciate the wonderful work of hospice at home, enabling our loved ones to stay at home for as long as possible as they come to the end of their life. Their professional care and skill combined with a deep compassion for the whole family makes a huge difference at some of our darkest times.”
David’s effort reflects his own experience supporting family and friends at the end of life, as well as his ministry in the Penrith area.
He added: “To spend a long day on the fells with the support of others, in memory of our loved ones and raising funds for such vital work is a privilege. I am very fortunate to be able to enjoy such times.”
Debbie McKenna, Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland CEO, said: “We are truly inspired by David’s achievement. Fundraising of this kind is essential to ensure we can continue providing our vital services.
“This figure will directly support the charity’s vital in the home nursing care for patients and their families and all the other vital services we offer across our local community.
“We cannot thank David, his supporters, and all who donated enough for making such a difference to local patients and families.”
