Light the Lakes: climbers to test their mettle for good cause

9 June 2023

Police officers will be testing their endurance when they climb The Old Man of Coniston for this year’s Light the Lakes on 23-24 June.

Those who tackle the 2,600-foot fell in the Lake District will be doing so to raise money for COPS (Care of Police Survivors) charity and will light blue flares at 3am in memory of police colleagues who died in service.

Claire Bond, a Federation rep in Staffordshire, will be taking part alongside her husband Darren, a West Midlands Police officer, and groups of serving and retired officers, friends, and family, who – between them – climb all 214 Wainwright fells.

Claire was left with serious injuries after being crushed by a car and dragged along the ground in 2018, after responding to reports of a stolen vehicle.

She said: “As well as paying tribute to fallen colleagues, making that climb is my way of recognising that I’m still here and in one piece.

“Although I didn’t personally need support from COPS, I know others aren’t as lucky. This is my way of raising money for COPS, while being with friends and family and showing my gratitude. I see doing this as my way of saying thank you to everyone who was there for me when I needed them.

“I’m just so grateful I kept both of my legs and I will continue to take part in the event for as long as I possibly can.”

She added that Darren goes off in front and makes sure the route is okay and it’s also his job to carry the tents.

Light the Lakes was started in 2012 by retired sergeant Ian Davis, who wanted to raise money for the orphaned children of murdered Surrey DC Heather Cooper. The inaugural event attracted 594 climbers and raised in excess £30,000.

Since then, the event has cemented itself as an annual occasion to raise money in memory of fallen colleagues.

West Midlands Police Federation chair Rich Cooke said: “This challenge can be mentally and physically exhausting for the climbers but is all worth it once they reach the summit and to know their efforts are for such a great cause.

“It is important that we never forget the sacrifices of colleagues who give their lives in service of others – they are true heroes. I would encourage members to consider sponsoring a colleague or making a donation if they are able.”

Go here to make a donation to COPS.