Salopians to take on Baffin Island expedition for charity

A trio of Salopians will be taking on a challenging expedition in order to raise money for charity.

Harry C-W (O, LVI) and fellow Oldhamites and Old Salopians, brother Tim C-W (2016-21) and Joe S (2014-19) will be taking part in the Baffin Island Traverse in an expedition lead by adventurer Sir David Hempleman-Adams, who recently hosted a talk at Shrewsbury.

Harry said: “I have been training hard as part of a team in preparation for an unsupported crossing of Baffin Island in the Canadian Arctic from 20th March to 4th April.

“The route is to walk from Qik via North Pangnirtung Fjord to the start of Akshayuk Pass. The route follows the Owl River in the June Valley. We then intend to climb a terminal moraine to Glacier Lake and walk past Mount Asgard to Glacier Lake then climb the frozen rapids to Summit Lake. Past Summit Lake we hope to descend down the frozen Weasel River towards Mount Thor which has the highest uninterrupted cliff face in the world (1,250m).

“The route continues on past Crater Lake and into a natural wind tunnel on Windy Lake. Very strong winds are expected here and can make progress extremely slow, so we have factored in delay times of several days. At the end of Windy Lake we aim to cross into the Arctic Circle and finish by walking out via the Pang Ford.Total Distance is about 100 miles.

“We shall be pulling our own kit in pulks in temperatures possibly as low as -40C depending on wind chill. Risks include weather, polar bears and cold injuries.

I am raising money for The Prince's Trust and am particularly focused on the positive impact this charity will have on the mental health of young people.”

Harry is set to leave school next week ahead of the challenge and we wish him, Tim and Joe all the best.

To sponsor Harry, please visit Harry's Justgiving page.