THREE adventurous youngsters are climbing Mount Snowdon this half term to raise money for their local children’s hospice.
Brothers Elliott (11) and Christian Mechan (9) from Leyland are teaming up with their friend Zac Everett (7) from Euxton to conquer the legendary mountain.
The trio are raising money for Derian House Children’s Hospice, a Chorley-based charity which cares for more than 400 children and young people with serious conditions from across the North West, helping them to make the most of every moment.
The three friends have been doing plenty of long walks to help them to prepare for the 3,560ft trek to the top of Mount Snowdon. Their training has included local uphill hikes such as Darwen Tower and Rivington Pike as well as climbs in the Lake District.
Charlotte Everett, Zac’s mum, is one of the parents joining the boys as they take on the highest mountain in England and Wales. She said: “The boys are all very sporty, Elliott and Christian both play football and Zac plays American football.”
“The overwhelming amount of support and donations has motivated them to train more in preparation.”
Charlotte’s employer, Halifax Chorley, has generously agreed to match their fundraising of up to £1,000.
Elliot, Christian and Zac hit their initial fundraising target after only 2 days of setting up their Just Giving page and have a friendly competition going with some of their classmates who raised money carol singing for Derian House at Christmas.
Nicola Mechan, Elliott and Christian’s mum, said: “The boys are thrilled and amazed by how much they’ve managed to raise so far. They are very touched at the kindness and generosity of people.”
“When deciding on a charity to raise money for, Derian House really made an impact on them. Relating it to children of their own age gave them the desire to try and help in some way.”
The care provided at Derian House is free for families, but services cost £5 million to run every year. With only 12 per cent of funding coming from the government, the charity relies heavily on its supporters.
Charlotte Robinson, Community Fundraiser at Derian House said: “We are so inspired by Elliott, Christian and Zac’s enthusiasm and commitment to their challenge. The money they have raised will help us to continue to caring for the children and young people who need us most. We will be really proud to see them reach the top of Mount Snowdon.”
Elliott, Christian and Zac are looking forward to a well-deserved ice cream to celebrate reaching the summit.
You sponsor Elliott, Christian and Zac’s Snowdon challenge here:
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Everett-Mechan
