Ilkley Firefighters unite with Mountain Rescue for Wharfedale Three Peaks

Thursday, 18 June 2026 06:05

Six firefighters, including James and Adrian based at Ilkley, will join members of the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association (UWFRA) for one of the region's most demanding fundraising challenges next Saturday, 27 June, and they're not making it easy for themselves.

The firefighters will complete the Wharfedale Three Peaks Challenge in full fire kit and breathing apparatus, while three UWFRA volunteers carry a rescue stretcher across 17 miles of Yorkshire Dales terrain. Their goal is to raise funds for a new swift water rescue sled — specialist equipment that would significantly extend the team's ability to operate in fast-moving water environments.

UWFRA is entirely volunteer-run and depends on fundraising to cover annual operating costs that exceed £70,000. Without that money, the team simply cannot function.

The Wharfedale Three Peaks Challenge is UWFRA's annual fundraiser, attracting walkers and runners to the stunning landscape around Buckden each year. Three routes are available:

Three Peaks — 17 miles, 3,800 ft | Firth Fell, Buckden Pike & Great Whernside

Two Peaks — 13 miles, 2,500 ft | Buckden Pike & Great Whernside

Family Walk — 4.5 miles, 300 ft | Along the River Wharfe and back via the Paradise Walk

UWFRA volunteer and local farmer Bernard Davies will be carrying the stretcher on the full Three Peaks route:

"Running 17 miles with a stretcher on my back isn't most people's idea of fun, but I wanted to do something that truly reflects the dedication and versatility of our rescue team. We respond to emergencies above and below ground, often in treacherous conditions, and having the right equipment is absolutely vital. This challenge is the perfect way to highlight our work while raising essential funds."

UWFRA Chairman Nigel Easton added:

"It's wonderful to see our colleagues from the fire service take on something this demanding alongside us. The Three Peaks route is a serious undertaking at the best of times — doing it in full fire kit or carrying a stretcher is another matter entirely. It speaks volumes about the character of the people involved, and we're extremely grateful for their support."

To enter the challenge visit https://www.sientries.co.uk/event.php?event_id=17182

To sponsor the stretcher challenge team visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/wharfedale-three-peaks-3

To sponsor the firefighters visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ilkley-fire-station-2