One Man. 13 Mountains. 4 Peak Challenges. 5 Countries. 7 Days.
Stephen Bamford, well‑known owner of Cryer’s Butchers in Littleborough, is preparing to take on what may be one of the most ambitious endurance challenges ever attempted - a 13‑mountain, 5‑country, 7‑day ultra‑ascent mission he has named the Cryers Butchers Ultra Peaks Challenge.
If successful, it could be a world first.
Beginning Monday 20th June, Stephen will attempt to complete four of the toughest peak challenges in the UK and Ireland, back‑to‑back, without a break between them. In total, the challenge covers:
- 5 countries
- 13 mountains
- 4 major endurance challenges
- All within 7 days
The four challenges include:
1. Ireland 4 Peaks Challenge (48 hours)
- Mweelrea (County Mayo)
- Carrauntoohil (County Kerry)
- Lugnaquilla (County Wicklow)
- Slieve Donard (County Down)
2. National 3 Peaks Challenge (24 hours)
- Ben Nevis (Scotland)
- Scafell Pike (England)
- Snowdon (Wales)
3. Welsh 3 Peaks Challenge (24 hours)
- Pen y Fan
- Cadair Idris
- Snowdon
4. Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge (12 hours)
- Pen‑y‑Ghent
- Whernside
- Ingleborough
The final finish line will be at the Yorkshire 3 Peaks car park - the moment Stephen stops the clock on what he hopes will be a sub‑7‑day total.
While each of these challenges is gruelling in its own right, Stephen believes no one has ever attempted to combine all four into one continuous, non‑stop endurance effort.
“To my knowledge, nobody has ever done all four of these challenges back‑to‑back in one go. If I can complete it, it could be a world record - and hopefully something that puts Littleborough on the map for something truly extraordinary.”
Stephen is using the challenge to raise funds and awareness for three charities:
- Andy’s Man Club
- Animals in Distress
- Springhill Hospice
Each organisation reflects a cause he cares deeply about - from mental health support to animal welfare to end‑of‑life care.
Behind the physical challenge lies a powerful emotional one. Stephen’s mum was diagnosed with cancer last year and has undergone operations and radiotherapy. Her strength has become a driving force behind his mission.
“There were times when things were uncertain, but she’s now nearing the end of her treatment. For me, it would push me to the finish line if she could be there at the end and witness me achieving a world record. That’s a massive incentive for me.”
For Stephen, this challenge is about more than mountains. It’s about resilience, belief, and showing what can be achieved when you push beyond your limits.
“This is about proving that anything is possible, mentally and physically, and raising as much money as I can for three incredible charities.”
You can help Stephen reach his goal here: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/stephen-bamford-1