Cumbrian Teenagers to Climb North Africa’s Highest Peak in Tribute to Family Friend

Two Cumbrian teenagers are set to take on North Africa’s highest mountain in a heartfelt tribute to a late family friend.

Jayden Carruthers and Jack Cannon, both 16 and from Carlisle, will climb Mount Toubkal in Morocco on April 6. Standing at 4,167 metres, the peak rises to more than four times the height of England’s tallest mountain, Scafell Pike.

The pair are undertaking the two-day challenge in memory of Selina Scott, a close family friend who died from cancer in 2020 after a year-long illness.

As part of their effort, the teenagers have been raising funds for the North Cumbria Hospitals NHS Charity, with the money aimed at supporting the cancer care unit at Carlisle Infirmary. They have already raised more than £2,100 ahead of the climb, with donations still being accepted.

Both students at Richard Rose Morton Academy, the duo have been training in preparation for the challenge, including regular running and fitness sessions. Despite the scale of the climb, they say they are excited and determined to complete it.

Jayden, who was just 10 when Selina passed away, said the climb holds deep personal meaning. He plans to carry a stone engraved with her name to the summit and leave it there in her memory.

Following the expedition, the teenagers also plan to present their fundraising cheque in person to the hospital’s cancer unit and share details of their journey with staff and patients.

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