The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Peaks group spurred on by lost friend
Angus pals who faced the challenge of climbing three of Britain’s highest mountains in just 24 hours say they felt the inspiration of the friend they lost every step of the way.
They have already raised more than £6,000 in tribute to Arbroath’s Bailey Menmuir.
The 21-year-old’s death in 2020 shattered the town and remains raw for his wide circle of friends.
The group felt Bailey willing them on as they tackled the slopes of Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis.
They say they are overwhelmed by support for the fundraiser in aid of Arbroath mental health charity Reach Across.
Andrew Fair led the organisation of the challenge and it took place just days after what would have been Bailey’s birthday.
Civil engineering graduate Andrew said the walkers had awful weather on their first climb.
They set off from the foot of Snowdon just after 10am on Saturday.
“It was rain most of the way, with heavy hail and wind at the top,” he said.
“For the other two we actually got really lucky with the weather.”
Andrew, 23, added: “There were 14 of us who took on the challenge.
“Quite a few of us have taken on doing Munros as a bit of a hobby so that’s where the idea came from.
“Not everyone completed all three mountains but it
was about showing their support for Bailey and trying to raise money for Reach Across.
“It would definitely have been a lot harder for us all without Bailey’s motivation being there.”
The climbers hit the summit of Ben Nevis on Sunday morning with less than half an hour of the 24hour deadline left.
For Ethan Bell, it was a second feat of physical endurance in memory of the friend he described as being “like a wee brother”.
Last year, the 25-year-old raised more than £6,500 for the Mental Health Foundation by running a solo marathon on the roads around his home town. He and younger sister Kali, 22, were among the walkers.
“I think we’re all a bit bruised and battered and the first one was horrible because the weather was so bad,” said Ethan.
“But we were encouraging each other and Bailey was with us 100%.”
Donations can still be made at gofundme.com/f/ three-peaks-challenge-forreach-across/donate