A team of police officers, special constables, and staff are taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge for charity.
The hike takes in the three highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon – and covers a distance of around 23 miles, with 3,000 metres of elevation.
Participants aim to complete the challenge in 24 hours.
The 20-strong team, which includes officers from Durham Roads and Armed Policing Unit (DRAP), Durham Special Constabulary, and the force’s Media Team, will begin the challenge on the evening of Thursday, June 18 in Scotland, and aim to finish the following evening in Wales.
The team are raising money for the baby loss charity, 4Louis, which works to support anyone affected by a miscarriage, stillbirth, or the death of a baby or child.
The challenge will also raise awareness of the Fatal Four, which are the four main factors that contribute to deaths on the UK’s roads. They are speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, not wearing a seatbelt, and mobile phone use.
DRAP Sergeant Steve Adey, who is organising the challenge, said: “Many of the officers taking part in this challenge are specialist roads policing officers, who are dedicated to keeping the roads safe for everyone.
“All too often, they have to deal with collisions which involve one or more of the fatal four and must deliver the horrendous news to a family that their loved one has been seriously hurt, or worse, killed.
“Sadly, a number of these involve children, who are one of the most vulnerable road users. Six children are killed or seriously hurt on the UK’s roads every day, which is the equivalent of a whole class of children every week – these figures are utterly heartbreaking and completely unacceptable.
“Through this challenge, we hope to raise awareness of the fatal four and the devastation they can cause, while also raising funds for 4Louis, to provide much-needed support to anyone affected by child loss.”
The charity is particularly close to Sergeant Adey’s heart after his daughter, Primrose, tragically died just a week before her second birthday in 2019.
All money raised from the challenge will go towards 4Louis’ vital work within the north east supporting bereaved parents and those who have been affected by child loss.
The charity provides memory boxes, cold cots that allow families precious time with their baby, bereavement training for healthcare professionals, and support resources during and after loss.
Paula Parnaby, from 4Louis, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the support from Durham Constabulary as they take on this tough and meaningful challenge. Having met the team, I’ve seen their determination first-hand, and I have every confidence they’ll rise to the challenge.
“Police officers often face one of the most heartbreaking duties imaginable, telling a family they’ve lost a loved one, sometimes a child. This is where we can work closely with the police, to ensure bereaved families are not left to face their grief alone.
“Every pound raised through this challenge will help us continue providing vital support to families coping with the devastating loss of a baby or child. Together, we can make sure they receive the care and compassion they need when it matters most.”
The team are being supported by Workwear Express, who have provided clothing and rucksacks for the challenge, as well as the Police Federation and Durham Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Joy Allen.
PCC Allen said: “This is an adventure with purpose, and I am full of admiration for the officers and staff who will be testing their endurance to the limits with this charity climb.
“With over 3,000 metres of climbing involved it isn’t going to be easy but with every step they take these brave officers and staff will know their efforts are making a vital difference for two amazing causes.
“I wish DRAP every success with their challenge. The team knows only too well the life-shattering impact of road tragedies through their work, and it is truly inspiring that their experiences continue to drive their efforts to save lives on the roads even while not on duty.”
To donate to the team’s fundraising, visit www.justgiving.com/page/durham-police-4
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
