Fundraiser Liam Harron's ten peak challenge for Swinton Lock to support child sexual abuse survivors

Liam Harron is backing Swinton Lock Activity Centre, a support hub for survivors, by lacing up his hiking boots and tackling a series of towering peaks.

And he has been stunned by the support he has received not only from sponsors who have pledged more than £5,000 but also two CSE survivors who decided to join him in pounding the footpaths.

“I work closely with some of those deeply affected by child sexual exploitation in Rotherham, including two adult survivors who have been helped enormously by Swinton Lock,” said Liam, of Dinnington.

“These two adults have been through trials leading to convictions and, at my invitation, they have been to community groups on a number of occasions to talk about their experiences.

“I decided to raise funds for Swinton Lock by setting myself the target of climbing Esk Pike, one of the highest mountains in England, which is a mountain I have wanted to climb for some time.

“As soon as I launched my fundraiser, using the Swinton Lock online fundraising webpage, one of the adult survivors I work closely with said she wanted to join in the challenge, and later a second survivor said she wanted to take part, too.”

Liam, who conquered Bow Fell in the Lake District on the same day as Esk Pike, said he had been so encouraged by the support he moved on to tackle Pen-y-Ghent, one of Yorkshire’s Three Peaks, and now planned to complete at least ten climbs.

These include the remaining two of the Three Peaks Ingleborough and Great Whernside, plus England, Scotland and Wales’ highest peaks, Scafell Pike, Ben Nevis and Mount Snowdon.

Last year, Liam and his friend’s dog, Jess, completed a sponsored 100 mile walk to raise £1,100 for Swinton Lock.

Praising his many donors, Liam said: “There are so many generous people in Yorkshire and beyond.”

Visit https://swintonlock.charitycheckout.co.uk/pf/Climb to find out more about the challenge and sponsor Liam.