Callum's Kilimanjaro Hike for Bob and Rich

In March 2026 I will be going on one of my big bucket-list adventures, and attempting to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro, the worlds tallest free standing mountain. The 5,895 m (19,341 ft) high, 56 kilometres (35 mi) hike will take 6 days, via the Lemosho Route. The route takes you through dense rain forest, scrubland, alpine dessert and artic conditions at the summit.

During this hike I would love to raise some money for two amazing charities, St Kentigern's Hospice and Scotty's Little Soldiers, in memory of two very good friends. Bob Baines and Richard Williams.

St Kentigern's Hospice, took care of Bob, a serving Rhyl RNLI Lifeboat crew member, during his final journey. During a visit to Bob, I witnessed the incredible care they gave him and his whole family. St Kentigern's is a local hospice to the N Wales area that relies heavily on donations to function and carry out their work looking after people at the end of their lives, whilst supporting their families too. It would be great to raise some money for them in Bob's memory. Bob was one of life's true characters, a typical jolly hard working Yorkshireman, and a great friend a colleague.

In 2018 we lost an amazing lad, Sgt Richard Williams. I had know Richard for years, first meeting him, his brother Dave and dad Roy at Rhuddlan Scouts. Growing up we had some fantastic times and a lot of laughs! I'm very proud to know both Richard and Dave who served, and in Dave's case still serve our country in the Army.

Richard passed away after being involved in a car accident whilst on his way back to base, leaving behind his wife Rhian, and three young boys, Thomas, Dafydd and Osian. This is how I've chosen my second charity.

Thomas, Dafydd and Osian joined Scotty’s in 2018 – just a month after their dad died – and have been supported by the charity ever since, benefitting from Scotty Breaks, grants, Christmas parties and the option to access to one-to-one bereavement support, should they ever want it. Through these events, they have been able to meet lots of bereaved military children who can relate to what they’ve been through.

Any donations to these two amazing causes in memory of two of the best blokes you could meet, would be very much appreciated. Thank you!