A YOUTH work manager is taking on the three peaks challenge to raise money for charity.

Dave Clarke will hope God is on his side as he tries to ascend Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon alongside charity colleagues in a sub-24-hour time. He will start his Nevis climb in Scotland at 6.00 am on July 13 and aim to reach the top of Snowdon in Wales before 6.00 am the following day.

All proceeds from the gruelling undertaking will go towards Swindon Youth for Christ, which empowers young people with engaging activities in schools and community groups in the town.

Dave said: “We are looking forward to the challenge of completing the three peaks, it will be complete and utter determination that helps us succeed. We are mentally tough, our only limitations may be our bodies.

“It’s really important to raise money. Mental health issues are increasing in the country and that’s a result of reaping what we’re sowing in youth work. If we don’t continually invest into our young people, then we’re in danger of reaping the negative consequences.”

To be in with a chance of achieving their goal, the three men will need to complete the 462-mile drive and 23-mile total walk at speed. But climbing the highest mountains in England, Wales and Scotland might be a tough ask, as Dave explained: “There are three of us who are taking on this challenge, of which two are not used to even playing sport regularly. Fraser Carter is our sports worker and enjoys playing sport, Ben Crathorne loves sport, however is definitely a watcher, and I… well, dabble in a bit of playing and watching but nothing regularly.

“In fact I’m most comfortable sat on a sofa with a cup of tea watching a movie. My friend told me, ‘Dave, you’ve really underestimated how difficult this challenge will be.’

“If nothing else, the knowledge of what can be done with the funds raiser will drive us on to complete the challenge. As a team we will make sure that all safety precautions are taken to give us the best chance.”

However, the trio are doing individual training with ex-military personnel and have received temporary gym passes from Grange Leisure Centre to help them prepare. So far they have raised £800 for the charity but they hope to reach their target of £2000 to bring hope to more young people who face difficulties.

The national three peaks challenge involves climbing around 10,000ft and is usually completed from north to south to make the most of the day’s light.

To help Dave and co reach their target as the starting date approaches, visit: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/syfc-3-peaks-challenge