climbing Scafell Pike

Every year, charity week is held all over the world in order to raise money for the less fortunate.

Students at universities across the UK (and the world) try to do their part by holding events throughout the week to raise money. At City, we set up sweet stalls, held a games night, a charity football tournament, a charity auction, and a sponsored mountain climb, all of the proceeds of which went to charity.

I had the opportunity to take part in some of the events that were being held on campus, as well as the climbing England's tallest mountain. I hadn't climbed a mountain in years since that one time I went to Wales with my school (though now in hindsight, I'm starting to think it may not have technically been a mountain). I remember it being the best part of that trip so I thought I would use this as an opportunity to take a break and spend some time with nature.

But for a lot of the students who went on this mountain climb, including myself, it wasn't just about the scenery. It was primarily about appreciating the difficulty some people around the world have to endure on a day to day basis. The kids that have to walk for miles every morning just to get to school. The families who walk for ages just to find some water. Those that have to brave hardship out of necessity. It was about appreciating what you have, being thankful for it and praying for those who have less.

It was also an amazing bonding experience. It was pretty awesome to see how everybody helped whoever needed help. You got to know your friends better and made new ones.

We left London via coach late on a Friday night and reached the Lake District 7 hours later. A rough night there and back to say the least, but well worth it.

there were about 90 of us

clean enough to drink + make wudhu

random ppl

when the summit is finally in sight

closer yet

finally reaching the top of the mountain

when you realise you now have to somehow get back down

Some tips for anyone planning on climbing a mountain:

• Leave the base of the mountain early in the morning, just after sunrise. The last thing you want to be is stuck on the mountain at nightfall.
• Take extra clothes: trousers, tops, jumper, SOCKS.
• Take a flash light, gloves and mountain shoes, even if you'll never wear them again. You need proper footwear with ankle support.
• Take energy: stock up on liquids and food/snacks with high energy.
• Get a good night's sleep the night before.
• Try not to climb in groups of less than 4, seriously.
• Google this because I've probably left things out.