AN ANNUAL Lake District hiking event has been hailed a great success after raising over £45,000 for a multiple sclerosis (MS) charity.
The sun made an appearance for the 400 participants who took on the 10in10 and Family 5in5 Challenge on Saturday, June 18, to raise funds for the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
From the event base at Swinside Inn in the Newlands Valley, 10in10 Challenge participants followed a 26km route that included Causey Pike, Sail, Crag Hill, Wandope, Whiteless Pike, High Snockrigg, Robinson, Dale Head, High Spy, and Maiden Moor.
The Family 5in5 Challenge was a shorter hike of 12.9km for walkers of all ages. With the same start and finish point, the route included Causey Pike, Scar Crags, Outerside, Stile End and Barrow.
The annual event was founded by Duncan and Yvonne Booth over a decade ago after Duncan was diagnosed with MS.
Over the years, participants have raised over £650,000 and organisers have set their sights on reaching £1million.
Over £45,000 has already been raised this year and the total is still rising.
Duncan said: “I am always blown away by how many people turn up each year and walk such a long way, some experienced and some not so experienced.
“Of course, I'd love to be able to walk with them, but I feel proud that so many people are walking to help us find a cure for MS.
“Thanks so much to everybody who supports Yvonne on the day.
“She works so hard all year round and has an amazing team behind her.
“I am so proud of my three sons who have grown up with the 10in10 and Family 5in5 and who are now fully involved with helping on the day and afterwards.”
Yvonne said: “The weather was perfect for fell walking and we enjoyed live music and a party at the Swinside Inn afterwards.
“We welcomed lots of new faces to the event in 2022 and can't wait to see everyone again in 2023.
“We are getting closer and closer to that £1million target.”
Although he is no longer able to take part in the hiking challenges, Duncan continues to raise money for the MS Society by fixing up old pedal bikes and recycling them in Keswick.
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