Three friends from Preston are planning to complete the National Three Peak Challenge in a bid to raise £1,800 for the Space Centre, a Preston-based charity which provides a flexible environment for children with learning disabilities.

The extreme challenge involves climbing Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike- the three highest peaks in England, Wales and Scotland, within 24 hours.

Ryan Hamilton, 24, a business studies teach at Runshaw College decided to organise the fundraiser after hearing the news of the fraudulent activity surround the Space Centre

He said “We have done some fundraising for Space before, and after hearing about the recent scam we just wanted to do our bit to help a local charity.’

Together with his friends James Holland, 24 and Matthew Bamber, 24, the trio have admitted they are not your typical adventurous, outdoorsy type, with Ryan even admitting he would much rather do a 24-hour game-a-thon on his X-Box than a hike!

“The Three Peaks is completely out of our comfort zone- but that’s why we chose it. We wanted a challenge that was extreme, but achievable. We have started training in the gym, doing exercises to strengthen our legs and build stamina. We’re also planning a few mountain hikes to give us an idea of what the real thing will be like- it will be in October so we will have all the elements against us!”

Alongside training, Ryan’s band- Ryan and Craig (facebook.com/ryanandcraig) will be busking and collecting donations at any gigs they play in the run up to the challenge.

“We played Longton Live last weekend and raised over £180! We were amazed by the generosity of local people who care so much about the SPACE Centre. It’s really motivated us to smash our £1800 target.”

The boys will take on the gruelling challenge on October 29^th. To donate head over to www.justgiving.com/ryan-hamilton3 or text the word “GOOD71” and the amount to 70070.

If any local businesses are interested in sponsorship, get in touch with Ryan at: j.time.z@hotmail.co.uk