Jonathon Ward

A walker who was rescued after breaking his ankle on England’s highest mountain is urging outdoors enthusiasts to join him in a challenge to raise cash for the air ambulance that helped him.

Jonathon Ward wants hardy outdoor types to join his Ullswater Charity Challenge, which involves an ascent of Helvellyn and two stints paddling on the nearby lake.

Mr Ward, 28, of Chester-le-Street, County Durham, was walking with friends on Scafell Pike in May last year when he fell about 6ft, snapping his ankle.

He said: “I knew my ankle was broken as I could see the bone was sticking out underneath my sock. I think the adrenalin made me try to get up and walk but I soon knew I couldn’t and needed help. ”

Fellow walkers searched for phone signal to summon help and mountain rescuers and the Great North Air Ambulance made their way to the scene.

Mr Ward said: “Darkness and drizzle were beginning to set in so time was of the essence. I was given some morphine by the aircrew, who were fantastic, and then stretchered to the helicopter.”

Mr Ward was stretchered to the air ambulance that had landed around 200m away. He was then flown to Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle, where he underwent surgery.

Now, the website developer hopes to give something back to the charity, by taking on the Ullswater Charity Challenge. This multi-activity test of endurance in aid of the Great North Air Ambulance Service is organised in conjunction with Cumbria-based outdoor activities provider, Distant Horizons.

Entrants will paddle a 12km (7-mile) circuit on Ullswater, scale Helvellyn via scrambles on Striding and Swirral Edges and then paddle back across Ullswater on 24 May.

Ruth Davey of GNAAS said: “The event is set in stunning scenery and provides the chance to explore the valley by boat and on foot. We hope supporters come forward to push themselves and raise money for a great cause at the same time.”

Mr Ward said: “This will be the first challenge of its kind that I have done and now I’m recovered, I aim to get back in shape and hope lots of people join me.

“I see the air ambulance as the fourth emergency service and I think they deserve our full support. You never think you’re going to need it until you do. It is vital.”

To take part, participants must make a £60 non-refundable deposit to GNAAS and pledge to raise a minimum of £90 sponsorship.

All technical equipment will be provided including boats, buoyancy aids and paddles.

For more information, contact GNAAS on 01325 487263 or email the charity.