Eight determined Penrith teenagers set off today on an incredible 75-mile trek across Cumbria to raise money for Hearts United, with their fundraising total already reaching £1,878.
Eddie, Alex, Freddie, Sammy, Cole, Roald, Harry and Coby,
all aged just 15, began their journey in Ulverston this morning and will spend
the coming days walking the length of the Cumbria Way before finishing in
Carlisle.
The challenge will take the group through some of Cumbria's
most spectacular – and demanding – landscapes, including Coniston, Great
Langdale, Borrowdale and Keswick, before crossing the northern fells to
Carlisle. With steep climbs, rugged terrain and long days on their feet,
completing the 75-mile route will be a remarkable achievement for the eight
teenagers.
The boys are taking on the challenge to raise vital funds
for Hearts United, a Community Interest Company dedicated to helping save lives
through the early detection of heart conditions and by providing CPR and
defibrillator training.
Funds raised will help provide free cardiac screening for
young people, helping to identify potentially life-threatening heart conditions
that often show no warning signs, while also supporting training that equips
people with the confidence and skills to respond during a cardiac emergency.
As they began their journey today, the group's fundraising
had already reached £1,878, with supporters continuing to donate as they make
their way across the county.
Although the boys are completing the walk under their own steam, parents will be meeting them at each daily finish point to provide support, help pitch tents and ensure they are ready for the next day's walk.
The challenge is also helping raise awareness of Hearts United's free heart screening event taking place in Penrith on 3 and 4 October. The charity is encouraging young people and their families to book an appointment, with the screenings designed to detect hidden heart conditions before they become life-threatening.
You can book a heart screening appointment online at: www.testmyheart.org.uk/private/
Find Penrith – Cumbria, 3rd & 4th October 2026 use the Password: 2026QEGS and choose your appointment time and complete the health questionnaire.
You can book up to 3 appointments at once. Once booked, you'll receive a confirmation email and consent form to complete and bring with you on the day.
Please note: Anyone aged 16 or over will need to provide their own consent.
Anyone wishing to support the eight teenagers can donate
through their GiveWheel fundraising page.
Every donation will help Hearts United continue its life-saving work and
support more free cardiac screenings for young people across the region.
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