Keeper climb for Charlie on Saturday

Hundreds of supporters are expected to participate in the ‘Keeper Hill Climb for Charlie’ by taking part in the organised fundraiser by making their way to the summit of the 2,277 ft high hill this weekend.

Registrations for the climb were still being accepted as we went to press this week and the preparations were being finalised for the climb on this Saturday morning.

Newport College has been joined by local clubs and friends for the climb in aid of Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and Pieta House to coincide with the Climb with Charlie, the former RTÉ reporter, of Croagh Patrick in Co Mayo, with all money raised to be shared by the charities.

Many people may be unaware that Keeper Hill is only 70m shorter than Croagh Patrick and participants will have two options to choose from.

The options are:

1. Keeper Hill summit, which is 8km, of a strenuous walk, expected to take about four hours to complete.

2. Ballyhourigan Loop which is 9km, of a more moderate walking route and expected to require three hours.

“With many climbs taking part across the country, we are delighted to be able to have one such event so close to our own community,” a spokesperson for the organisers said.

“The people in the town and surrounding area have sent many messages of support and are looking forward to getting to the top of Keeper on Saturday,” they added.

“Offers of help from clubs, societies and local businesses have been overwhelming! The buzz in town is palpable and everyone that we talk to say that it has really lifted the spirits of people in the community.”

Participants are advised that there will be no parking available at Doonane Wood or Ballyhourigan.

A Park and Ride system will operate from four locations: Newport College, Lacken GAA Park, Derryleigh Soccer Club Park, and the church Car park, Newport. Buses will leave at 9am, 10am and 11am.

People are asked to tog out appropriately, for example walking boots and rain gear. Bottled water will be provided along the route and the Red Cross will be on duty. Please - no dogs allowed and participants are urged to ‘Leave no trace - no rubbish’.

HOW TO REGISTER

Registration can be made at forms.office.com/r/GNUBFYzHyS and to donate the link is

idonate.ie/NewportCollege.