CAPTAIN Tom has inspired members of a mixed ability walking group to virtually climb Ben Nevis in their own homes.

Take A Hike is made up of disabled people with a love of walking and University of Bradford students who assist them.

When their Ben Nevis trip was cancelled, they decided to turn their efforts to completing the challenge in their own homes, by walking up and down their stairs 50 times each.

Adam Tasker, student development leader for the University of Bradford’s Student Union, founded the group.

He said: “They were all gutted when the Ben Nevis challenge had to be cancelled due to Covid-19. The last few weeks have been a lonely time for many of our members, as many have been stuck indoors for weeks due to shielding, with no end in sight. It’s also been tough for many of our university students who have been in lockdown in student accommodation, a long way from their families.

“This challenge was inspired by Captain Tom, but we felt it would be a great way to keep in touch with everyone and to keep moving.”

Adam explained that members had a number of different disabilities, from visual impairments to learning disabilities.

The group have been raising money through their Climb for Carers, reaching more than £700 already for Bradford Hospitals' Charity - the NHS charity partner of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Adam said they chose to raise money for Bradford Hospitals ‘Charity because they wanted to say thank you to the NHS and specifically recognise the NHS charity which supports the hospitals they use.

“It’s quite tiring going up and down stairs 50 times! But everyone can do it at their own pace, so it is achievable,” he said. “We would love people from around Bradford to join us, post a video and donate. It means a lot to us all to have the support!”

Hayley Collis, head of fundraising for Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, said: “Take a Hike is a fabulous group of people who come together to enjoy their love of hiking. It keeps everyone fit and healthy and they have had brilliant opportunities to visit places they never would have been able to without the support the group offers.

“We are incredibly grateful to Adam and all the members for taking on this challenge. While we understand it’s not quite Ben Nevis, it’s still not easy to walk up and down your stairs 50 times, so we salute your efforts!

“Thank you to everyone who has donated. It will go towards supporting our frontline NHS Hospital Heroes as well as our patients.”

To donate visit justgiving.com/fundraising/take-a-hike-challenge.

All money raised by Take a Hike will be spent on supporting staff through the crisis, supporting them longer term and purchasing equipment and services to enhance patient care and treatment.