Volunteer Heroes on the Hills

Every once in a while, a fundraising event becomes something more… Not for the miles covered or the money raised, but for the acts of kindness and community spirit it inspires along the way. This summer, three Cadet Force Adult Volunteer heroes set off to conquer a gruelling 42-mile trek from Norton to Whitby. Cleveland ACF Sergeant Instructors SI Lilli Adams, SI Jenkinson, and SI Frater were fundraising for ACCT UK. Along the journey, they were tested in ways that showcased the very best of ACF values.

The challenge began on Day One as the team departed Norton at 9:00am, laden with supplies and high spirits. Their goal was to cover 42 demanding miles on foot, camping and surviving on field rations, all while raising vital funds to support our charity’s work for young people. After a hard-earned 13.5 miles, they pitched camp for the night, spirits undimmed despite the mud and miles.

Day Two greeted them with the stunning North York Moors as they struck out towards Roseberry Topping. This is a peak beloved (and feared!) by generations of hikers. The climb was tough, but so was the team. After reaching the top, they captured the view, along with an unexpected sense of accomplishment. Spirits buoyed, they readied themselves for the next phase of the hike.

As SI Adams descended to their support vehicle, she spotted an elderly man on the ground and his grandson in distress. Without hesitation, SI Adams rushed to their aid, quickly calming the young man and assessing the situation. The elderly gentleman had suffered a serious fall, leaving a deep cut to his head.

SI Adams’ quick thinking came to the fore as she applied pressure to the wound. She then called for SI Jenkinson, who sped across the hillside with his first aid kit at the ready. Working together, they cleaned the wound and offered reassurance to both casualty and grandson. Remaining calm under pressure, they instructed the young man to call emergency services and relayed their precise location using the What3Words app. This is critical for an accurate response in the undulating national park landscape.

Mountain Rescue and paramedics arrived promptly, thanks in part to the clear guidance given. The volunteers supported the professionals in every way. They helped lift equipment, guided the team, and even halted foot traffic to ensure privacy and safety. SI Jenkinson transported a Zoll (cardiac) monitor. SI Adams carried the paramedic bag and SI Frater hauled the oxygen tank… all the while keeping the casualty at ease. After a careful extraction, the volunteers waited for the gentleman’s wife and daughter, offering yet more comfort and reassurance.

Once this emotional episode was over, the volunteers checked on the well-being of the casualty, who, we are pleased to report, is recuperating well and exceedingly thankful that fate aligned his need for help with the volunteers’ route that day. As the sun set, the team pitched camp and rustled up some much-needed “ratpack” chilli con carne, heads full not just of the miles behind them, but of the difference they’d made.

Day Three (the final push!) dawned bright and clear. Undeterred by aching legs and tired shoulders, the team set out, conquering checkpoint after checkpoint. Whitby’s iconic abbey came into view; the end was in sight. Their arrival was met not just by the roar of the sea, but by the smiles of locals and tourists alike. Two children were so inspired by the team’s story that they even asked for photographs.

Reflecting on the experience, SI Adams shared,

Their journey embodied everything the ACF stand for: service, resilience, teamwork, and a selfless desire to make a difference in the world. As a Cleveland ACF spokesperson put it, “We are immensely proud to work alongside volunteers who are just so selfless and inspirational – and fantastic role models to our Cadets. Three cheers for our outstanding Adult Volunteers!”

It’s one thing to walk 42 miles for charity; it’s quite another to combine that effort with life-saving first aid and compassionate support to strangers in need. These volunteers remind us that, in uniform or not, the values we carry shape communities and save lives.

If you’d like to support these volunteer heroes in their continued efforts, and donate to ACCT UK, their fundraising page remains open:

Visit the Cleveland CFAVs JustGiving page

Let’s celebrate our volunteers—not just for the miles and money, but for the quiet, everyday heroism that shines through when it’s needed most.