A SOUTH Lakes business has joined forces with one of Britain’s top climbers to host a ‘fun day’ for the families of teenage cancer victims.

Windermere-based Impact International and daredevil, Leo Houlding, ran the event with the support of the Teenage Cancer Trust, to help families from Cumbria and Lancashire who are supporting a teenager with a cancer diagnosis.

"Climbing the most difficult mountain in Antarctica required courage, determination and the support of a committed team,” said Mr Houlding.

“The young people and their families that I met face a much greater challenge, to overcome a mountain that they didn’t choose to climb.

“But with the same courage, determination and support it is possible to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.

“I think having the opportunity to meet other young people dealing with cancer in an fun, informal environment is extremely valuable and I hope my story of Antarctic adventure inspired them as much as they inspired me.”

The event was held at at Cragwood Country House, on the Windermere shoreline, with the aim of helping the families get away from their ‘every day challenges’ by having fun together.

It comes as figures show seven young people aged between 13 and 24 are diagnosed with cancer every day in the UK.

The impact of a cancer diagnosis is potentially devastating for a young person and the Teenage Cancer Trust is the only charity dedicated to helping support this age group by providing specialist staff and facilities during and after treatment.

“This is the first event that has been run by Impact and the Teenage Cancer Trust and it was a real success,” said David Wright, lead nurse for teenagers and young adults at the trust.

“The intention of the event was to provide a fun day for families where a teenager or young adult has had a cancer diagnosis.

“Impact International provided the perfect day with a range of activities that were suitable for all ages, from canoeing to crate climbing, and sack races to a coconut shy.

“The setting at Cragwood was instantly relaxing with breathtaking views across Windermere, Grizedale Forest and up to the Langdale Pikes.”