Seven intrepid Suffolk schoolchildren are taking on an epic climbing challenge this weekend to raise money to support teenagers battling cancer.
The youngsters, aged nine and 10 and from Sir Robert Hitcham Primary School in Debenham, are being sponsored to complete the Kids 4 Peaks in Snowdonia National Park, Wales.
Today the pupils will tackle Tryfan, Glyder Fach, Glyder Fawr, and tomorrow they attempt the country’s highest mountain, Snowdon. In total they will walk around 12 miles, with more than 6,000 feet of ascent.
The fundraisers have already smashed their target of collecting £1,000 for the Teenage Cancer Trust by more than £600.
It was 10-year-old Tilly Buckland who first came up with the idea, before enlisting the help of friends.
She said: “A few months ago, I asked my dad if we could do a challenge together, something that in years to come I could be proud of. We came up with the Kids 4 Peaks idea. So this weekend we are climbing four mountains in Wales, along with my friends.
“We are doing it for Teenage Cancer Trust because we wanted to raise money and help children.”
According to Jenny Townsend, from the Teenage Cancer Trust, there are an average of 350 teenagers and young adults in treatment for cancer each year across East Anglia.
The charity has a specialist unit at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge for 14-24-year-olds and the aims is to bring young people together to get their treatment alongside others their own age, in an age appropriate space.
Jenny said: “I am thrilled they have decided to take on this challenge and support our work.
“They have independently managed fundraising activities at their primary school, and demonstrated excellent teamwork, a skill which they will need during their climbing weekend to encourage each other when the going gets tough.
“Our services are vital to young people going through cancer; the funds they have raised really will make a difference to our work.”
To donate, see here.
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