A team from Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is today (Tuesday) taking on one of the UK’s most demanding mountain challenges in a bid to raise vital funds for rescued animals during the charity’s landmark 50th anniversary year.
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary CEO Lawrence Bates is joined by fellow Three Peaks Challenge veterans Mary Lenton and Sandra Digby, alongside Charlie Panayi from Red Squirrel Property Shop, as they tackle the legendary Welsh 3000s challenge.
The gruelling trek spans the Carneddau, Glyderau and Snowdon mountain ranges, with participants climbing all 15 peaks that rise more than 3,000 feet above sea level. Covering around 30 miles of rugged mountain terrain with thousands of metres of ascent, it is widely regarded as one of the UK’s toughest hiking challenges.
Rather than attempting to complete the route within 24 hours, the team will tackle each mountain one after another, taking whatever time is needed to safely complete all 15 peaks.
The challenge is raising money to support Wildheart Animal Sanctuary’s rescue, rehabilitation and conservation work, helping to provide lifelong care for rescued animals.
Lawrence Bates, CEO of Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, has said:
“This week we’ll be taking on the Welsh 3000s to raise money to enable us to rescue more animals, and what better way to do that than climbing 15 great big mountains!
Article continues below this advertisement “It seemed like a good idea at the time, but after tackling one of the mountains in training, we know just how tough this challenge is going to be.
“However much we’re suffering over those miles, it’s nothing compared to what so many of our rescued animals have endured. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help us transform the lives of animals who desperately need a second chance.
“Please get behind the team if you can – every penny really does make a difference.”
The fundraising effort forms part of Wildheart Animal Sanctuary’s programme of events marking 50 years of rescuing animals, with a series of initiatives taking place throughout 2026 to celebrate the milestone while supporting future rescue, rehabilitation and conservation projects.
Lawrence, Mary and Sandra previously completed the National Three Peaks Challenge in 24 hours in 2024 before taking on the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge in 34 hours in 2025. The Welsh 3000s is expected to be an even greater test of their physical and mental endurance.
As an independent charity, Wildheart Animal Sanctuary needs to raise almost £2 million each year to continue caring for the hundreds of rescued animals that call the Isle of Wight sanctuary home while supporting future rescue and conservation projects.
Those wishing to support the team’s fundraising efforts can donate via www.wildheartanimalsanctuary.enthuse.com/pf/team-wildheart-welsh-3000.
