Mum hikes 60 miles carrying baby daughter to raise funds for Ashton-based children’s mental health charity

A collage of some of the locations Rebecca and her daughter have walked

Rebecca Pukiello is hiking 60 miles over a series of walks carrying her 22-month-old daughter to raise funds for a children’s mental health charity.

The Ashton-based Butterfly and Phoenix Project, which supports local young people, has seen an increase of cases throughout the pandemic.

Counsellors are only just able to work through the waiting list, and are in need of additional resources.

Rebecca has completed The Tolkien Trail, Lancashire Cheese Walk, Garstang to Scorton circular, Wyre coastline, Loud Mythom, Great Hill and Anglezarke and part of the Guild Wheel.

She has already raised over £1,500 for the charity.

Rebecca said: “I know this last year has been difficult for many, and I do think that children have done incredibly well to cope.

“With schools closing, sport stopping, not being able to hug family and friends and then schools reopening, with bubbles closing and classes isolating – it’s been tough.

“Most children are quite resilient, but there are some children who have reached out for help and needed someone to talk to.

“There are also some children who had struggles even before the pandemic, with bullying, neglect and bereavement.

“Every step counts, every donation matters.”

To donate to Rebecca’s fundraiser, visit GoFundMe.

Find coronavirus stats in your area below

Proud Preston. This, and many stories like it, show how the people of Preston are making a difference. Our Proud Preston section showcases all the charitable, kind, uplifting and great things about our city and the people who live here. #ProudPreston is alive and well, and there’s much to celebrate and be proud of, despite the challenging times we all face.

What do you think of Rebecca’s efforts? Let us know in the comments.