Ancaster man completes ‘incredible and exhilarating’ Three Peaks Challenge in less than 24 hours for Mind charity

An Ancaster man completed the Three Peaks Challenge for a mental health charity, describing the experience as “incredible and exhilarating”.

Dan Needham, 36, climbed Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike, the highest peaks in Scotland, Wales and England respectively, within 24 hours.

He has raised almost £800 for the mental health charity Mind.

Dan said: “The experience was physically and mentally challenging, but at the same time incredible and exhilarating.

“[It was a] crazy 24 hours with clear weather producing spectacular views in Scotland, England and Wales, from the highest peaks.”

To prepare for the challenge, Dan said he had climbed two of the peaks on separate occasions and had “spent a lot of time in the Peak District hiking” and generally spent his time boxing, swimming and in the gym to keep fit.

When asked why he chose to raise money for Mind, Dan said: “It’s a charity for mental health which affects one in four people and is something that is not talked about between the male population as much, or any gender to be fair at times.

“The reason for choosing the outdoors challenge was also to promote getting outdoors.

“It can do so much for you mindset in a positive way.”

Dan’s challenge consisted of 10 hours travelling time between the peaks, and 14 hours of climbing time.

He started out in Scotland with Ben Nevis, before climbing Scafell Pike overnight wearing a head torch.

Dan finished his challenge in Wales at the top of Snowdon 23 hours and 45 minutes after starting out.

To donate to Dan’s fundraiser, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/dan-needham-1682838304538

He took on the expedition through a company called Mountaineerin.