Veteran trekker takes on Mount Olympus challenge for charity

Saturday 12 August 2023

A 67-year-old islander is preparing to climb the highest mountain in Greece next month to raise funds for Jersey Cheshire Home.

David Tupper is part of a group who will take part in a five-day trek up Mount Olympus, scaling almost 3,000 metres on 4 September to raise vital funds for the home, which supports the lives of adult islanders with disabilities.

The home is the only one of its kind on the island and is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

The team hopes that for this special occasion they can raise £400,000 over the course of 2023 through the many events they have organised.

In the past, Mr Tupper has taken part in many other "treks" to raise money for the home, which he previously served as a volunteer.

Mr Tupper said: "I got to meet many residents and care workers while volunteering and realised that this home is really needed in Jersey.

"Despite my 'never again' mantra, I think I have done all the treks since the first one back in 2009 to Machu Picchu in Peru.

"I’ve trekked to The Balkans, Patagonia, Jordan, Kerala, Iceland and Slovenia."

He added: "My friend and fellow trekker David Le Cornu liked to think we started the trekking fundraising idea by completing a very wet and windy West Highland Way walk and climbing Ben Nevis. From memory we raised about £10,000 towards a special bath for the home.

"I enjoy the challenge and it’s a chance to visit some very interesting places I wouldn’t normally get to visit."

Jersey Cheshire Home chief executive Donna Abel, who is also taking part in the trek, said the organisation was "delighted David is trekking for us again this year and raising money for those who can’t".

She continued: "He’s an amazing supporter of Jersey Cheshire Home and proof that you’re never too old to challenge yourself."

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You can sponsor the Mount Olympus trekkers HERE.

This article was put together by Mabel Patten during her work experience with Bailiwick Express.