Cumbria’s mountain whizz kid is about to embark on his next challenge.
Frankie McMillan, 10, of Gosforth, aims to raise £50,000 for Cardiac Risk in the Young by climbing 32 European peaks. If successful, Frankie will secure a new world record.
He will attempt an expedition from May 23 in Spain and Andorra and has been backed by brand Dare 2b.
He is raising cash for the charity after he discovered his school friend Xander Morris,10, was suffering from Long QT Syndrome Type 2, a critical heart condition which could be fatal at any moment.
Frankie – who has previously tackled over 700 mountains including Everest and Mount Olympus – fell in love with mountains when he was three.
He climbed his first Wainright fell with his mother Basia, who is a mountain rescue volunteer and mountain guide.
As a young explorer, Frankie has gone on to climb 1,000 mountains globally and is planning on climbing the highest peaks during his summer holiday with his mum and specialist local guides by his side.
Frankie has so far raised over £26,000 for Cardiac Risk in the Youth.
Sally Bailey, Dare 2b marketing manager, said: “We have been working closely with Frankie and his mum Basia to kit Frankie out with all the gear he needs to complete his Euro Peak Challenge safely and comfortably.
“As a team, we’re all so inspired by Frankie and will be cheering him on for every step.”
Basia McMillan, Frankie’s mum, said: “As a mum, watching my son take on 32 mountain peaks for his best friend fills me with overwhelming pride.
“His kindness, determination, and love shine through every single step we climb together. I’m so proud to be by his side for this challenge, he’s inspired so many people and the difference he’s trying to make for his friend and others living with heart conditions.”
Frankie added: “I’m climbing 32 mountain peaks because my best friend Xander is one of the strongest people I know. He has a poorly heart, but he never gives up, so I won’t either. Every step I take is for him, to help raise money, make people smile, and show him he’s not climbing this mountain alone.”
Dare 2b will be supporting Frankie McMillan for his 2026 and future challenges.
