Northumberland adventurer to aid Great North Air Ambulance

Claire Hughes will cycle between England, Scotland and Wales to paddle and hike their largest lakes and mountains

A record-breaking adventurer who almost lost her foot after falling on ice is to take on a new challenge in aid of medics who came to her rescue.

Claire Hughes was given emergency treatment after slipping in Northumberland in November 2021 and flown to hospital in Newcastle.

The 44-year-old has announced a triathlon-style trek across England, Scotland and Wales to raise money for the Great North Air Ambulance (GNAAS).

She said its work is "life-saving".

Miss Hughes, who rowed 3,000-miles across the Atlantic in 42 days in 2019, setting a new world record as part of the fastest mixed-team of four, had been walking to Bolt's Law in the Pennines when she slipped on what she described as "sheet ice".

The fall left her with a broken ankle and leg and at risk of developing hypothermia in -20C wind-chill conditions, GNAAS said.

She was given emergency treatment in a tent on a snow-covered hillside before being transported to hospital for further help.

Claire Hughes was treated at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary

This April she intends to take on a week-long challenge which will see her paddle across each country's largest lake - Lake Bala, Windermere and Loch Awe.

She will also hike each country's highest peak - Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis - and cycle between each site.

'Stories to tell'

Miss Hughes, of Wylam in Northumberland, explained: "They said the air ambulance guys had done such a fantastic job of pulling my ankle straight they did me some major favours in terms of recovery.

"I think the work GNAAS does is incredible, life-saving and essential. It also costs a lot to run and I can't believe they are a charity. Therefore, I'm very mindful of the continuing need for financial support.

"For me, it's not about being the best, the fastest, going the furthest or being the first. It's about finding your own challenge, enjoying the journey and finding the adventure along the way.

"My measure of success will be to complete this with a smile on my face and some stories to tell."

She has set up a JustGiving page for donations.

The keen rafter will take to the water again as part of her charity challenge