Sir Chris Bonington: 'it will be a great fun day'

Mountaineering legend Sir Chris Bonington is leading an event organised by the outdoors community to help Cumbrians who suffered during the recent floods.

The Grand Day Out will also raise funds for mountain rescue teams, who have been crucial in operations across the UK to help flood victims.

Organisers are still adding events to the programme for the 16 January fundraiser, and are also encouraging others to host their own events in aid of the Cumbria Community Foundation flood appeal and the county’s mountain rescue teams.

Activities include guided fell walks, music gigs, film screenings, trail runs, cycle tours and outdoor skills sessions.

The Grand Day Out is being supported by a range of partners from around the UK, many of whom have donated prizes, including weekend breaks and outdoor clothing. A charity auction and raffle will take place as part of the event.

Tom Rumsey, one of the volunteer event organisers, said: “What started out as a small event aimed at getting a few people together to raise some funds for the CCF flood recovery appeal soon went viral.

“The incredible response from individuals, businesses and organisations from across Cumbria, and for that matter all over the UK, has been amazing. We hope the Grand Day Out will encourage lots of people to come and enjoy this amazing part of the country.”

Grand Day Out

Cumbria resident Sir Chris Bonington, patron of the Grand Day Out, said: “Do please come and support A Grand Day Out in Cumbria.

“Events will be held and hosted by communities all over the county to celebrate the resilience and spirit of our fellow Cumbrians and raise funds for the Cumbria Community Foundation’s flood recovery appeal, and our mountain rescue teams, who gave such wonderful support throughout the crisis.

“It will be a great fun day for all who attend and at the same time will help raise much needed funds to help people who find themselves in financial distress after losing their home or their business.”

Tickets for events already scheduled, along with updates for new additions, can be obtained on the Grand Day Out website.