Ex-soldier rattles sabre for hospice
A FORMER soldier has created a gruelling ‘Sabre Challenge’, backed by Bear Grylls, to raise money for a Valley hospice.
John Dawson, created the eight-mile challenge to raise the money in memory of his dad David, who died of cancer a year ago after receiving care from Rossendale Hospice’s Hospice at Home team.
Beginning at Rawtenstall Cricket Club, the eight-mile trek will include seven team challenges en-route.
The teams of four will be challenged on their map reading and navigation skills; casualty extraction; communication; minefield crossing; survival skills; observation and memory; and finally an obstacle course.
John said: “After all the social restrictions, I wanted to arrange a physical challenge event to get people back together in our beautiful valley which we have all come to appreciate much more.
“The event will challenge people’s fitness and mental endurance but I want it to be open to people of all abilities.
“This is a perfect event to work as a team and lean on each other’s skills for each of the challenges. It will be a really positive and motivational atmosphere.”
TV survivalist Bear Grylls has also lent his support to the challenge.
He said: “An epic challenge for an amazing cause. John, I admire you and all your challengers so much. Huge respect and never give up!”
Rossendale Hospice would like to thank sponsors without whom the event wouldn’t be able to take place: Mission Labs, Limelight Signs and Courtesy Shoes To undertake the challenge, participants need to be of an average fitness level. Places can be booked at: www.rossendalehospice. org/sabre-challenge.