The events are based at Horton in Ribblesdale, in the shadow of Pen-y-ghent
National park bosses have issued a final call for outdoor enthusiasts willing to put their heart and soles into a challenge event this weekend.
Proceeds from the Saturday walks, based round Yorkshire’s Three Peaks, will be split between the Yorkshire Dales authority and Heart Research UK.
Walkers can choose between a full 24-mile circuit from Horton in Ribblesdale of the Three Peaks, Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, or a less challenging valley walk of 15 miles along the flanks of Pen-y-ghent and Whernside to Ribblehead and back. There is also a short 5km (3-mile) family nature discovery walk along the river banks and through Horton village, with children’s activities on the way.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority will use its part of the money raised to maintain the network of heavily used paths around the popular three hills.
The event, on 18 June, will be the 20th annual running of the Heart Research UK charity’s Three Peaks challenge.
The registration fee will cover the cost of full communications and first aid cover, transport for any injured or retiring walkers as well as organising checkpoints and water stations run by experienced staff and volunteers on both the valleys and Three Peaks routes. Every walker will also receive a t-shirt on the day.
Steve Hastie, the YDNPA’s Three Peaks Project manager, said: “We have had a great response so far, with plenty of people signing up for the two longer walks, and we are expecting some last-minute entries too.
“It’s going to be a real family day and we are just hoping the weather is kind to us so that we can raise much needed cash for two very worthy causes.
“The footpath network on the Three Peaks needs a massive amount of maintenance because it copes with more than 100,000 visitors a year. It’s a huge and expensive job to keep it in a good enough condition to be used all year round.
“As well as knowing they are helping us, everyone taking part will be helping research into heart disease and giving people the chance to live healthier, happier and longer lives.”
Heart Research UK Community Engagement Officer Rachel Brooke said: “We’re really looking forward to our Day in the Dales. We’re excited to be seeing old friends and new, who are taking on our challenges to raise money for both ourselves and the national park’s Three Peaks project.
“As this is the 20th year that Heart Research UK has been running the Three Peaks challenge, we are celebrating with a Day in the Dales for families to come along and enjoy.
“There will be a sports day with vintage sports such as sack race and tug of war, as well as lots of competitions, activities, stalls and locally sourced produce.”
Clothing brand Damart is sponsoring the event.
More details and entry forms are on the Heart Research UK website. Anyone interested can also phone 0113 234 7474 or email the charity to request an information pack.
