Over the month of July two groups of walkers tackled Helvellyn in the Lake District to raise over £1100 to support Lancaster University’s Defying Dementia campaign.

The hikes were organised by outdoor event specialists and long-term supporters of Defying Dementia, Adventure Trails who also organise the annual Race2Remember which has become a permanent fixture in the Defying Dementia calendar. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing pandemic this year’s race had to be cancelled but the hikes proved to be a popular alternative and gave the opportunity for those taking part to experience one of the country’s most famous beauty spots whilst raising vital funds to support the groundbreaking research being undertaken into Alzheimer’s disease at Lancaster University.

The first of two guided hikes took place on a very mild morning on the 12^th of July. Cousins Louise and Katie and brother and sister James and Charlotte accompanied by guide Sean began the walk at Wythburn all emblazoned in yellow Defying Dementia t-shirts. The weather remained fine throughout and the team were able to take in four peaks including Nethermost Pike and High Crag as well as Helvellyn in a little over five hours. The team were even supported by fellow hikers who generously donated money at the peak of Helvellyn, which to date is the highest altitude donation we have ever received!

The second group which consisted of friends Angela and Jaclyn took part on the 26^th of July were not quite as lucky with the weather. They also decided to take on the extra challenge of Striding Edge and its accompanying breath-taking views on their way to the second tallest peak in England. They again were able to complete the hike is just over five hours despite typical British summertime weather.

Despite challenging terrain and conditions, both groups remained unscathed from the hikes and collectively managed to raise over £1100 thanks to generous support from their families, friends and the local community. In addition to this Adventure Trails also generously donated the entry fees from all of those who took part, all of which helped to contribute to a very successful month of hiking.

For more information about similar events in the future and how you can get involved please visit the Defying Dementia Facebook page and the Adventure Trails website.