Foresters Charity Appeal Monthly Roundup – September 2026

Welcome to the third edition of our Foresters monthly roundup, where we celebrate the efforts of Foresters members who are raising funds for Shelter, a national UK housing and homelessness charity, as part of our 2026/2027 Annual Charity Appeal.

September saw the Society’s President, Bruce Hicks, along with Foresters Helen Hicks, Alan Mackinnon, and Non-Executive Director, Ray Milne, tackle a gruelling 24-mile trek for their Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. Keep reading to find out more.

Conquering the Yorkshire Three Peaks

On Friday 25th September, four determined Foresters members embarked on a 24-mile hike across the iconic Yorkshire peaks of Ingleborough, Pen-y-Ghent, and Whernside.

The team demonstrated exceptional determination as they hiked 2,152 metres in challenging wet and windy conditions, with some finishing in the top 10 out of the 65 people taking part.

Helen’s Trek Diary

For Helen, the challenge proved every bit as tough as anticipated.

“Personally, I found the trek very challenging”, said Helen. “Within 10 minutes of setting off in the dark and rain at 5.52am, head torches essential, we faced our first steep incline. The pace was fast from the start and immediately raised the heart rate.

Climbing the mountains was tough enough, but the descents were even harder on the knees and hips. The pace was relentless at times and difficult to keep up with, but the incredible support and sponsorship we had received kept me going. I was determined to reach the finish line.”

Helen’s perseverance paid off, completing the challenge in 11 hours and 6 minutes, beating her previous time of 11 hours and 50 minutes, achieved 11 years earlier. Helen was also the first woman in her age group to complete the challenge out of those who took part.

As Helen made her way across the Yorkshire Three Peaks, she also decided to leave behind a few painted stones along the route. The idea came from Billy’s Boulders, a Facebook group started by a family in memory of their son, Billy, who sadly passed away. The group encourages people to leave painted rocks in places they visit, creating small moments of connection and remembrance for others to discover.

Helen added, “It felt like a fitting way to help honour Billy while adding a little surprise for fellow walkers. A mother and daughter that we met in our group of 65 trekkers were kind enough to take the Yorkshire Rose stone all the way back to Ireland to hide there. Not only did they give the stone a new adventure, but they also kindly sponsored our charity challenge with a £50 donation for Shelter when they returned home. Such a thoughtful gesture, and a wonderful example of the camaraderie and kindness that made the challenge so memorable. I later found out from the Facebook group that Billy’s great-grandfather also came from Ireland.”

Check out the boulders that Helen ‘hid’ along the way:

Ray’s Reflection

Ray shares his personal account as he reflects on the recent Three Peaks Challenge:

“The challenge felt like the equivalent of hiking a marathon up and down Ben Nevis. Hiking in Yorkshire is just like life. Sometimes you achieve something that is a once in a lifetime experience. I’m grateful to have completed the Three Peaks Challenge alongside three Foresters friends in support of Shelter.

One highlight was walking alongside the Ribblehead Viaduct, which I last saw from the top when taking my steam train mad Dad on his trip of a lifetime on the Flying Scotsman. This one’s for you Dad. Huge thanks to everyone who has donated so generously – this will make a difference to so many in real need.”

Over £3,000 Raised

Commenting on the partnership, Foresters President (more traditionally referred to as High Chief Ranger) Bruce Hicks said:

“Millions of people in the UK are being devastated by the housing emergency. Thousands of people are homeless on any given night, including families with children. By supporting Shelter, we aim to raise vital funds and awareness so they can continue their essential work in ensuring everyone is able to live in a safe and secure home.”

“I’m really grateful to Ray, Helen and Alan for taking part in the challenge with me and keeping spirits high. So far we have raised over £3,000 for Shelter and I would like to thank everyone who has supported us with their well wishes and donations.”

How to Get Involved

Foresters members across the country are taking part in a range of fundraising, awareness, and community activities. The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is one example of the dedication shown by Foresters members in supporting worthy causes and making a positive difference in their communities.

There’s still time to support the team’s fundraiser on JustGiving:

Bruce, Helen & Alan’s Fundraiser for Shelter

Ray’s Fundraiser for Shelter

Stay Tuned

Stay tuned for more updates in next month’s Charity Appeal Roundup! If you’d also like to fundraise with us, here’s how you can get involved:

You can learn more about the Society’s Annual Charity Appeal here.

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