Who’s up for a challenge with Luing’s John?
Luing’s John Blackwell scaled Scarba for charity almost two decades ago and this year he has another challenge in mind and is looking for others to join him.
A 12-mile sponsored walk in the mountains above Kinlochleven on Saturday July 9 in aid of Cancer Research UK will be the 18th annual fundraiser he has organised.
The first was in 2003 when he, along with other adults and children, climbed to the top of nearby island Scarba. Covid meant a 2020 challenge had to be missed.
Over the years, they swam across the Cuan Sound, climbed other summits and took part in a triathlon, raising £55,000 in total so far for the cancer charity.
'As we ran out of children to join us, we turned to walks instead. We've made £55,000 so far but we are still climbing. We haven't finished with our fundraising yet,' said John.
Aviemore to Braemar, Glen Affric and up Ben Macdui are just some of the lengths and heights covered in the past.
This summer, the sponsored walk will be to Blackwater Reservoir, starting out from the hostel in Kinlochleven, following a circular walk with great views. ‘It’s not a hard walk. We won't be climbing sheer rockfaces or anything like that!’ said John.
‘We have a lovely nucleus of people who join us, with some coming from Ireland and Liverpool. We’d love to welcome you,’ he added.
Interested or wishing to donate? Call John or Sue Blackwell on 01852 314333.