Outdoor Survival Expert and Chief Scout, Bear Grylls, has lent his support to the “Calvert Bear 5 Peak Challenge” organised by Keswick Rotary Club to raise much needed funds for the Lake District Calvert Trust (Calvert Lakes).

The cash flow crises caused by the Covid-19 pandemic left Calvert Lakes with a mountain to climb. Since launching their Bounce Back appeal in December 2020, the charity has now raised over £730,000 towards its £1m target, enabling a planned re-opening of the Calvert Lakes Activity Centre on Bassenthwaite Lake, in late June.

With 2021 also set to be extremely financially challenging, Keswick Rotary, supporters of Calvert Lakes since it’s foundation over 40 years ago, has committed to a final push for funds to help re-establish a sustainable platform for future operation. With the backing of Rotary clubs across Cumbria and Lancashire “Calvert Bear’s 5 Peak Challenge” was launched.

On 26^th May, members of Team Calvert Bear, will each aim to complete a tough 21 mile circuit of local peaks after which the Calvert Lakes activity teams are named, (Dodd, Skiddaw, Latrigg, Grisedale Pike and Barf) using cycles and canoes to travel between the mountain ranges.

Calvert Bear, “furry mascot” of Calvert Lakes, frankly concerned about the state of his team emerging from lockdown, contacted his idol, Bear Grylls OBE, for help in motivating his team to get fit for the challenge. Bear responded to his eponymous fan’s request for support saying:

"An epic challenge that will help so many people... I admire all those embarking on this adventure so much.”

Organiser of the Calvert Bear 5 peak Challenge, Helen Hunt, says “All of us in Team Calvert Bear are thrilled that Bear Grylls recognises the importance of Calvert Lakes and our efforts to help them overcome the devastating impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. Our hearts are big but our athletic prowess leaves something to be desired. When this challenge starts to hurt, Bear’s words of encouragement will spur us on. We are tirelessly fundraising to support this local charity that, with their world class specialist facilities and equipment, makes the outdoors accessible to so many people with disabilities. No contribution is too small to help those deprived for so long of the freedom of the outdoors; every penny of sponsorship counts towards ensuring that Calvert Lakes has a long-term future.”

Event: “Calvert Bear 5 Peak Challenge”

Location: Bassenthwaite Shoreline

Date: May 26^th 2021

Fundraising Page: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/TheCalvertBearChallenge

Facebook: https://fb.me/teamcalvertbear