TWO Skipton dads have climbed Helvellyn in the Lake District to raise money for children’s charity SELFA.

The dad duo reached the top of one of England’s highest peaks to raise more than £1,000 for a charity close to their hearts.

Dale Nicholson and David Hudson wanted to undertake the climb in recognition of the support the charity has given to their sons, Lucas Nicholson and Jacob Hudson. Both boys are on the autistic spectrum.

Dale said: “I can’t think of a better way to spend a weekend.

"Climbing Helvellyn was a personal challenge, and with the help of everyone’s sponsorship, we have raised a significant amount of money for SELFA. We are grateful to the ‘Heaven and Helvellyn’ gang, who were climbing for Sue Ryder Manorlands, for letting us join their ascent.”

The pair climbed to the 3,117ft summit of Helvellyn – the third highest mountain in the country and one of the most recognised climbs in the Lake District.

The dads completed the walk in seven-and-a-half hours, tackling the ascent via the infamous Striding Edge with the help of the Helvellyn team.

Dave added: “SELFA has been unbelievable in the way they have helped my son, Jacob, and Dale’s son, Lucas.

"Every day the boys’ face challenges and SELFA is there for them every step of the way. We conquered a personal challenge climbing a mountain because every step of our walk was for a charity that has made a real difference to our families.”

The charity, which has been supporting both the boys for more than seven years, will use the money to fund future holiday activities and after-school projects for children and young people locally, who are vulnerable, disadvantaged and disabled.

The charity's founder and co-ordinator, Emma Pears, said: “We are thrilled at the amount raised by two very special dads, and everyone at the charity always loves to hear the difference we make to the children we work with and their families.”

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