THREE plucky Scout leaders from Westbury are to take on a special version of the three peaks challenge.
Scout leader Andrew Kettlety, expedition leader Gareth Morris and Cub leader Geoff Wheeler have given themselves just 24 hours to climb the UK’s three most important peaks: Scafell, the highest in England (3,209ft); Snowdon, the highest in Wales (3,560 ft); and finally White Horse Hill, the highest peak in Westbury (728ft).
The trio hope to raise as much money as possible towards the Scouts’ planned expedition to America next year.
The troop will be visiting Troop 233 from Westbury, New York, joining them at an adventure camp in the 200ft high Catskill Mountains.
“It’s going to be the chance of a lifetime for them,” said Scout leader Andrew Kettlety. “Going to America for many kids isn’t a great deal; they go to Disney World in Florida but they don’t actually see the real America, so we’re going to let them see something a little different and a little more interesting.”
Andrew and Gareth said they were equally confident and apprehensive about the challenge ahead. “There’s so many sponsored events that go on we thought we’d do something that was a bit bigger than the norm and a bit different,” said Andrew.
“We figured it would be easier than a sponsored diet!” added Gareth.
Andrew and Gareth admitted that training so far has been a little on the light side but were planning to put the miles in over the coming months.
Gareth said, “The first climb will be alright but the second one will be the hard one.”
Andrew added, “By the time we get back here and it’s just up the White Horse, we’re not going to have slept and we are going to be absolutely shattered but the finish line will be in sight, so pure adrenaline will get us up that far!”
The pair said they had eschewed the traditional third peak of Ben Nevis not only to make the challenge more achievable but also to give the the event a stronger Westbury focus.
“This way the Scouts can see us collapse at the top – sorry, I mean march triumphantly!” said Gareth.
To sponsor the trio call 07900 244104 or email scouts@firstwestbury.org.uk
