Leeds Scaffolder Undertakes 400-Mile Charity Walk to Ben Nevis

A scaffolder is currently undertaking a 400-mile (644 km) trek from his residence in Leeds to the summit of Ben Nevis, aiming to collect funds for three charitable organizations. Kane Haley, 24, commenced his “Belle Isle to Ben Nevis” challenge a fortnight ago and has, to date, accumulated £2,500 for Mind, Andy’s Man Club, and the RNLI. Prompted by the loss of friends to suicide, he opted to embark on this fundraising effort. The challenge is projected to span 21 days, involving an average daily walk of 10 hours or 22 miles (35km). Mr. Haley stated that he initially embraced walking as a means to bolster his mental well-being and “make a change.” He explained, “I started changing my life and falling in love with outdoors and so I started spending my weekends outdoors and going out walking.” He added, “Then instead of going out drinking I’ve been completing a good number of these mountains, like the big peaks of Scotland, England and Wales.” Mr. Haley expressed a desire for a challenge that diverged from typical endeavors. He remarked, “I like to set myself these big goals. I thought, I bet no-one’s done it from Leeds, so why not?” His journey has already led him across the Pennines and into Scotland. In the coming week, his route will encompass scenic locations such as the Trossachs, culminating in the ascent of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak. Despite undertaking the expedition solo, he noted encountering numerous individuals during his progress. His TikTok account, which chronicles the challenge, boasts over 1,500 followers. Throughout the journey, his mother, Emma Whittaker, has provided support, driving to meet him “every three days with fresh socks and underpants.” Ms. Whittaker commented, “I don’t think we fully appreciated how remote some of these places are, and that there’s literally nowhere open in some places to get food.” She added, “So I just try and keep him going really.” Mr. Haley, who also serves as co-director of a construction firm, emphasized the significance of mental health support, having witnessed its impact on many of his colleagues. Additionally, he chose to contribute to the RNLI, citing his affection for coastal areas. He explained, “I’ve been visiting the seaside from a young lad, from my parents and grandparents, and they always taught me, explained what the RNLI do.” With one week remaining in his endeavor, he identified rain as his primary worry. He stated, “I can deal with cold. I can warm up. But if I’m wet it’s going to be a bit hard. “I’ve had a little bit of rain, but not too much yet. So we’ll see about that.”