TWO best friends will be taking on two hiking challenges this summer, in memory of Hightae lass Eilidh McNab.
Emily Russell and Eleanor Blake are embarking on a two-part leg breaking hike along the West Highland Way and the Three Peaks Challenge in memory of Eilidh, who lost her life in August 2019 after getting into difficulty in the water at Bracklinn Falls in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
The pair will be raising money for the Killin Mountain Rescue who did their best save Eilidh that fateful day.
Emily said: “In August 2019, my best friend and flatmate Eilidh tragically passed away at Bracklinn Falls. Five years on, I’m finally taking on a charity challenge in her memory to raise money for Killin Mountain Rescue (KMR), a volunteer mountain rescue team located in Killin and Callander who were critical in the rescue efforts that day.
“This challenge consists of two separate sections, with us setting off on the West Highland Way on June 30 2025. This is a 96 mile long trail which passes through the district covered by KMR as we start in Milgavnie and aim to reach Fort William on the July 5.
“Following this, the second part of the challenge begins as we tackle the Three Peaks Challenge, conquering the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales over a 24 hour time period. Climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon.”
The challenge will take the pair more than 119-miles and 6500 metres of elevation over the course of eight days. Emily and Eleanor have set themselves a £2500 goal, with donations going towards new equipment for KMR.
Emily added: “Money raised will go towards providing every team member with a safety harness and replacing some technical hardware. “Coincidentally all equipment being replaced was used to assist in the rescue efforts for Eilidh back in 2019 and this challenge will be a lasting legacy for her that will benefit other people in need.”
To donate to the girls’ fundraiser visit www.justgiving.com and search ‘Emily’s fundraiser for Killin Mountain Rescue Team’.
