A Donington vet has taken on the unusual challenge of climbing the highest point of every county in England.
Ellie Bateman has set herself the target of a year to conquer the peaks of every one of the 48 counties to raise funds for the Vetlife charity.
They range from the 978 metre high Scafell Pike in Cumbria to the 22 metre high High Holborn in London.
The 34-year-old has already completed seven of the hills including Kinder Scout in Derbyshire and Lincolnshire’s highest point Normanby Top.
“I first got the idea late last year when I was a little bored with life, focusing too much on work and wanted a challenge and a way of seeing the country,” Eleanor said. “I’ve always enjoyed hiking but wanted to push my fitness further, with support from my personal trainer Keiran James at Spalding Snap Fitness, and he’s really helped me deal with increasing my cardio and endurance.
“The toughest part I have found so far is the planning and trying to fit in hikes around work, social events, and life in general.
“I’ve already had one rolled ankle which got me behind my schedule by a few weeks whilst I recovered.”
Ellie works at Vets4Pets in Bretton, Peterborough and decided to do some fundraising on the way.
Vetlife is a charity that helps support vets, be it in training, during their career or after.
“The veterinary community continues to experience significantly higher levels of depression and suicide than the general population,” Eleanor continues. “Vetlife works to ensure that those engaged in the veterinary community are aware of available assistance, and signposts them to sources of help should they, or a colleague, be in need of support.
“Support needs vary according to circumstance and may involve short-term support to cope with an immediate crisis or longer term support for those affected by age, ill health or disability.”
Ellie’s carrying out some of the walks solo but has been backed by fellow vets are joining her on others and sometimes husband Dan and dog River.
“It’s been a fantastic excuse to meet up with old friends and family across the country,” continued Ellie. “I also have an Instagram page where I am documenting my journey through this (@that.ginger.girl.who.hikes).”
To donate to Eleanor visit www.justgiving.com/page/countytopschallenge2024
