An RAF serviceman is preparing to walk 500 miles and climb the UK’s three highest mountains as part of a fundraising challenge for a military veterans’ charity.
Howard Kniveton, 23, from Rotherham, will attempt the National Three Peaks Challenge in aid of the Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen’s Families Association (SSAFA).
His route will take in Ben Nevis in the Grampian Mountains, Scafell Pike in the Lake District and Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) in north Wales. Unlike many participants, Kniveton will walk the entire distance between the three summits, rather than travelling by vehicle.
He said he plans to wild camp each night, carry all his supplies and live on military ration packs, with the aim of completing the challenge in 20 days.
Kniveton has spent the past six months training for the trek, which will see him cover an average of 25 miles a day across demanding terrain. Weather conditions could include winds of up to 60mph, adding to the difficulty of the challenge.
The RAF serviceman is currently based with 34 Squadron RAF Regiment at RAF Leeming in North Yorkshire.
Explaining his motivation, Kniveton said the challenge was inspired by the difficulties faced by some former service personnel after leaving the armed forces.
“You’ve got to think of the homeless veterans out there, freezing and facing their own challenges alone,” he said.
He added that he wanted to raise awareness of cases such as that of an Army veteran supported by SSAFA who was living in a tent during winter, highlighting the ongoing need for support services.
Funds raised from the challenge will go towards SSAFA’s work supporting serving personnel, veterans and their families across the UK.
