A BURY man is preparing to climb Ben Nevis and two other peaks this Saturday to raise funds for the Stroke Association.

Anthony Murphy, 28, of Albert Street, was inspired to climb the tallest mountain in the UK after both his parents, Tim and Vickie, survived strokes.

Anthony said: “My mam had two strokes in around 12 months, the first leaving her in a rehab unit and facing a long recovery afterwards, before she had a second stroke due to stress. While on the surface she seems to have made a full recovery, her stroke has had an impact on her memory and she often forgets conversations.

“For a long time, we were continuing with day-to-day life until my dad had a stroke last May. His speech was not impacted. But he has seen more of a physical impact with continuing issues with his arms and legs.

“This combined with his arthritis means a stroller or mobility scooter is required for anything outside of the house. Twelve months on, we are still coming to terms with his stroke as we find his memory fading, especially the short term. I know first-hand just how devastating strokes can be so I’m fundraising for the Stroke Association to help other families to rebuild their lives.”

His Ben Nevis ascent is part of a three peaks challenge over four days, where he will also climb Scafell Pike and Snowdon to raise money. He will also be helping the National Tremor Foundation and Scafell Pike for Mind.

Anthony added: “The training is going quite well with longer hikes and ever increasing hills to climb as while I am a seasoned hiker, I have never attempted to climb three mountains in four days with questionable levels of sleep.”

Emma Kay, a Stroke Association fundraiser, added: “We know how tough life has been recently. This is especially true for the 1.2m stroke survivors in the UK right now. A stroke can happen to anyone at any time and it turns lives upside down.”

To sponsor Anthony, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/3peaksbytrain2021scotland