FRANCIS House Children’s Hospice is seeking adventurous walkers to sign up for an unforgettable overseas trip, and help raise funds to support children and young people with life-limiting conditions.
The charity, which supports hundreds of families from across Greater Manchester - including families from Oldham and Saddleworth - is hoping to fill the last few places on the stunning trip to the Albanian Alps.
The trek to the "Accursed Mountains of Albania" takes place in September and is the fourth global challenge to be organised by the hospice.
A group of sixteen enthusiastic hikers have already signed up, with eight of these coming from the Oldham area alone.
Among those undertaking the trip is David Ireland, chief executive of Francis House. David from Dobcross is also minister at Oldham’s United Reformed Church in Union Street.
The Albanian Alps offer an unspoilt wilderness of magnificent snow-capped peaks, gorges, lakes and dense forests, dotted with tiny stone-built hamlets that have changed little in years.
The challenging trip taking place from September 6 to 14, and will involve five full days of adventurous trekking taking in breath-taking and remote mountain panoramas whilst hiking between simple guesthouse accommodations in traditional mountain villages.
“Francis House is all about helping people live life to the full regardless of ability. The Francis House trek has proved that people of all ages can achieve great things both for their own health and for Francis House," said David.
“Everyone who has walked with us in the past has been appreciative of the team spirit and mutual support. The trek will be a unique experience and we’d love to hear from anyone who is looking for a memorable and rewarding adventure.”
Previous treks to Jordan, Morocco and Iceland have raised £112,000 in sponsorship.
The Albania trek costs £1,124 per person including flights, accommodation, meals and tour leaders, in addition everyone taking part is asked to raise a minimum of £1,000 in sponsorship.
To find out more call the hospice on 0161 443 2200 or visit www.francishouse.org.uk/trek-albania/
L-R Gill Bevin, Francis House director of care, David Ireland Francis House CEO and Judith Ireland on a past trek to Iceland
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