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A 24-year-old scaffolder from Leeds is on an epic journey, walking 400 miles from his home in Belle Isle to the summit of Ben Nevis to raise funds for mental health and coastal safety charities.
Kane Haley embarked on his challenge two weeks ago and has already raised £2,500 for Mind, Andy’s Man Club, and the RNLI. Spurred by the loss of friends to suicide, he hopes to complete the 21-day trek, averaging 22 miles and 10 hours of walking daily.
Haley, who first turned to walking to improve his mental health, told BBC News that the outdoors became a transformative passion. “I started changing my life and falling in love with the outdoors,” he said. “Instead of going out drinking, I’ve been tackling mountains like the big peaks of Scotland, England, and Wales.”
Determined to make his challenge unique, Haley chose to walk directly from Leeds to Britain’s highest peak. “I like to set myself big goals,” he explained. “I thought, I bet no one’s done it from Leeds, so why not?”
His journey has already taken him over the Pennines, past landmarks like Ribblehead Viaduct, and into the Scottish Highlands. With a week remaining, he plans to traverse scenic spots like the Trossachs before ascending Ben Nevis.
Though travelling alone, Haley has encountered plenty of well-wishers and shared his journey with over 1,700 followers on TikTok. Supporting him from afar is his mum, Emma Whittaker, who drives out every three days to resupply him with essentials like fresh socks and food.
Follow Kane’s journey on TikTok
“I don’t think we fully appreciated how remote some places are,” she admitted. “I just try to keep him going really.”
Haley, a co-director of a construction firm, emphasised the importance of mental health support in his industry, where many colleagues have been affected. His connection to the RNLI stems from a lifelong love of the coast, a passion passed down by his family.
With just days left, Haley’s primary concern is the weather. “I can deal with cold—I can warm up,” he said. “But if I’m wet, it’s going to be a bit hard.”
Despite potential rain and snow, Haley remains committed to his mission, showing the resilience of both body and spirit to support causes close to his heart.
To donate, please Kane Haley’s just giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/kane-haley-belle-isle2ben-nevis-for-mind
