By Danny Hanks – Ascent RAF Valley, BFT Scheduling Manager
On 7 June 2025, a determined Ascent team from RAF Valley took on the ‘formidable’ National Three Peaks Challenge – aiming to summit the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours.
The team, made up of six walkers and two drivers from 72(F) Squadron and the Hub, began their journey at Ben Nevis (1,344 m) at 09:00.
After ‘conquering’ Ben Nevis – the tallest of the three – the team journeyed south to the Lake District to tackle Scafell Pike (978 m). The final ascent was Snowdon (1,085 m) in Wales.
The challenge was not without its hurdles: wet and windy weather, sheep sleeping in the middle of the road after a night climb, sleep deprivation and running out of small talk after long hours in a minibus.
The team proudly stood on all three peaks within the 24-hour window and raised over £5,000 towards Ascent Valley’s chosen charity Bear Force, which is dedicated to supporting children’s mental health. Bear Force provides tools to help children express their worries and equips parents, caregivers and professionals with strategies to engage with children from early years through adolescence.
It’s not too late to show your support – click here to donate: 72(F) Sqn and ASCENT fundraising for Bear Force Positive Children’s Mental Health Charity
