[With thanks to the Bracknell News - Full story here >> https://www.bracknellnews.co.uk/news/17937260.bracknell-councillor-tackles-himalayas/]
THIS WEEK a councillor will be swapping the council chamber for the foothills of the Himalayas as he takes on the challenge of a lifetime. Cllr Robert McLean, ward member for Warfield, is embarking on the ten-day trek to raise money for Thames Valley Air Ambulance.
The adventure will see Cllr McLean start in Delhi, India, before an overnight train takes him to Dharamsala, the home of the Dalai Lama, from where he will commence his 52-kilometre hike.
He told the News: “This is all about raising money for Thames Valley Air Ambulance.
“I have heard from patients how the service has helped them at their time of greatest need, when that help was critical and made the difference between them living and dying. I have also met their dedicated, highly-trained and skilled doctors, paramedics and support staff, who provide that life-saving care. With all the money they need to fly their helicopter and operate their critical care cars coming entirely from donations, I know that everything I raise will help them continue their life-saving work.”
The journey will take Cllr McLean to an altitude of up to 3,000 metres after he tackles dense forests, alpine meadows and mountain streams.
As part of his preparation for his first-ever trek, Cllr McLean hiked up Mt Snowdon one day earlier this year.
However, in India he will have to keep going day-after-day.
He added: “I know it will be tough and quite unlike anything I have done before. “I don’t think any of the training I have done could prepare me for what lies ahead but I am looking forward to it; it will be a real test for me, physically and mentally.”
More than £1,600 has been raised for the cause already, but Cllr McLean is hoping to reach a £3,000 overall.
You can view Cllr McLean’s fundraising page here
