Over 100 guests attended the Lake District Calvert Trust’s Summer Ball at Armathwaite Hall on Friday - raising £24,000 for the charity.

During an evening of fabulous fun, fine food and inspiring stories, guests heard from keynote speaker and ex-SAS mountain leader Krish Thapa, who last month achieved mountaineering history by guiding double above-knee amputee Hari Budha Magar up the world’s highest peak - Mount Everest. It is the first time a double above-knee amputee has reached the summit of the world’s tallest mountain.

Reflecting on the magnitude of their achievement, Krish Thapa told guests how the expedition has “changed the perspective of disability forever”.

Sean Day, Centre Director at the Lake District Calvert Trust thanked everyone who attended and supported the Ball.

“What a fantastic evening,” said Sean. “It was our first Ball since the Covid-19 pandemic and there was a real buzz in the room. Krish’s talk about Hari’s achievement and overcoming personal challenges struck a real chord as it sums up what the Lake District Calvert Trust is all about.”

Calvert’s Summer Ball included an auction and silent auction with a range of generous bids from guests. Lots included a hot air balloon flight, Michelin star meal, flying lesson, holidays in the Lakes and exclusive cinema hire at the Keswick Alhambra.

Martin Mullin, Chair of Trustees at the Lake District Calvert Trust said:

“I’m absolutely delighted that we were able to host our first black tie ball since pre-pandemic.

“The Lake District Calvert Trust is a fantastic organisation that has been established in the North Lakes since 1976. It is a privilege to work with the whole Calvert team who carry out such astounding work, helping people with disabilities enjoy all the Lake District has to offer and to find out just what they ‘can do’. At the Lake District Calvert Trust, we believe The Lakes should be accessible to everyone. Each year, our residential breaks, accessible stables and ground-breaking rehabilitation centre help thousands of people with a range of disabilities experience the Lake District in a safe and supportive way, delivering a fun and fulfilling experience that makes a positive difference in their lives. None of this would be possible without the tireless efforts of our supporters and funders. Huge thanks to our sponsors, suppliers and of course, Armathwaite Hall. However, this is just the beginning. Over the next 5 years we have set ourselves a hugely ambitious fundraising target of £3.2 million and the work started on Friday with our Summer Ball.”