A team of Hull wildlife rescue volunteers are in training for a mammoth UK Three Peaks challenge to raise vital funds for two animal charities.
The six-strong team at Hull Wildlife Protectors are weeks away from tackling Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon, an epic trek that covers 23 miles and ascends more than 10,000 feet, and they are aiming to complete the challenge in just 24 hours. And the group are more than ready for the big event, having covered 24 miles by completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge in just 12 hours, a circular route that includes the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough.
The challenge was created as part of a mission to raise £3,000 for two separate wildlife rehabilitation centres – The Wildlife Alliance in Walkington, and Rens Wildlife Hospital in Holderness. The group say that wildlife needs us now more than ever, with the rising cost of living and an increasing number of animals in need stretching wildlife rehab organisations to the limit.
Figures so far for this year certainly back that up, with Hull Wildlife Protectors (HWP) reacting to 516 calls for help so far this year. HWP was founded a few years ago, originally as a small group focused on monitoring wildlife crime, especially targeting illegal hunting in our area, but organiser Charlotte Smiths says their remit quickly expanded when it became clear that its mission needed to grow.
She said: “Soon, we were responding to wildlife emergencies and carrying out rescues. Today, we rescue all kinds of animals, deer, foxes, birds, and more. We also run a wildlife helpline, offering advice and guidance to anyone who needs it.
“Every member of our team is a volunteer, we all have full-time jobs, but we do everything we can to make ourselves available when animals are in need. It’s not always easy, but our passion for wildlife drives us to help whenever we can.
(Image: Hull Wildlife Protectors)
“We’ve been part of so many unforgettable rescues over the years. Rescues involving foxes, deer, or badgers tend to stand out because they’re less common and often more challenging. One rescue that has really stuck with us happened a couple of years ago, when we freed a trapped owl from a drain.
“Watching that owl take flight again, soaring over the fields to safety, was an incredible moment. Seeing an animal return to the wild, knowing we played a part in giving them that second chance, is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world.
“We chose to support WLA and Ren’s Rescue because every animal we save depends on them for the next crucial step, treatment and rehabilitation. Without them, there would be nowhere for these animals to go.
“Our rescues simply wouldn’t be possible without the incredible work these rehabbers do. That’s why it’s so important that we raise funds, to help cover the veterinary care, medication, and specialised treatment these animals need. Every penny we raise goes directly toward giving these rescued animals a real chance at recovery and freedom.”
The group has so far raised £2,569 towards their target, and they hope more people will sponsor them ahead of the big day, which is set for August 23.
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Charlotte added: “Taking on this challenge was a team decision, we all agreed it was something we had to do. We’re quite an active group anyway, but we’ve been stepping up our training for this! A couple of weeks ago, we tackled the Yorkshire Three Peaks as part of our preparation, to push ourselves and get a real sense of what we’re about to face. It’s definitely going to be tough, but we’re ready for it.
“We know the physical side will be demanding, but what really challenges us is the mental side, keeping going, pushing through when it gets tough, and staying focused on the goal. But we know that’s what the wonderful wildlife rescues do, every year. Jenny and Pamela don’t get a break and they don’t get a day off! And they definitely would find it easier if they didn’t have to stress about funds. Knowing why we’re doing this, and who we’re doing it for, gives us all the motivation we need!”
Donations to the fundraiser can be made through the group’s GoFundMe page.
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