Stockport schoolgirl embarks on epic challenge for RSPCA
11-year-old Libby Cantwell will climb mountains and cycle marathons.
A kind-hearted schoolgirl from Stockport is staying true to her New Year’s resolution - to help animals, by taking part in as many challenges as she can to raise money for the RSPCA.
Libby Cantwell, 11, has already collected £250 in just a couple of weeks and plans to climb mountains and cycle marathons in aid of the charity.
Libby, who's a pupil at Reddish Vale Secondary School, has some much-loved pets of her own, two cats called Tigger and Violet.
She said: “The reason why I am trying my best to help the RSPCA is because animal cruelty upsets me so I want to help in any way I can to make sure all the abused animals have a happier, brighter life and future. I just think what greater love can you get than from your loving pet?
“I love all animals and I want to be a part of the RSPCA when I'm older! Animals have so much to offer. They make great companions for millions of people. For many, animals such as dogs provide a lifeline and give hope back to those who are vulnerable such as the visually impaired.
"It has also been scientifically proven that by spending time with our pets, relaxing and cuddling them, this can benefit our own personal health by reducing our heart rates and lowering blood pressure.
“So this year, I have decided to set myself a goal by trying to raise as much money as I possibly can for the RSPCA. I will do lots of challenging events like hiking, running, cycling, abseiling, rock climbing, swimming and baking!”
On Sunday January 14, Libby and her mum took on the 2,949ft challenge and climbed Great Gable in the Lake District - the seventh highest mountain in England.
Libby’s mum, Leanne Cantwell, said: “Not only did she climb Great Gable but she had to endure minus 14 degree wind chills, uncertain and icy terrain and wind. This all made for an incredibly challenging task and even though Libby was literally thrown in at the deep end when it comes to extreme mountaineering, especially for a child, she kept up her high spirits the whole way. She kept telling me ‘Mum I’m doing this for the animals’.
“This is no one-off sprint for Libby - she will be taking on various challenges throughout the whole year. She asked if she could kick-start her campaign by hiking a mountain with me, as I often go hiking in my spare time, and maybe take on abseiling challenges, swimathons and marathon bike rides. Knowing how resilient and strong Libby is when it comes to outdoor activities we agreed to support her.”
You can donate to Libby’s cause HEREHERE.