The 2.6 Challenge is a national fundraising campaign, organised by some of the biggest mass participation sports events in the country. It aims to raise vital funds to help save UK charities who have been hugely impacted by the cancellation of fundraising events due to Covid-19.

We have had to cancel many of our events and activities, including the annual Cross Bay Walk, so are encouraging people across the county to take part, and to come up with their own wildlife inspired 2.6 challenge.

Jody Ferguson of  Cumbria Wildlife Trust said: “It’s really easy to take part and the challenge can be adapted to suit your talents, interests, and abilities. Whether you want to hop like a frog for 2.6km, record as much garden wildlife as you can in 26 minutes, or run 2.6 miles in a wildlife inspired costume, there’s a way you can help Cumbria’s wildlife while being part of one of the nation’s biggest fundraising challenges”.

To get involved, just dream up an activity based around the numbers 2.6 or 26 and go to the 2.6 Challenge website, select fundraise, and make Cumbria Wildlife Trust your chosen charity on Virgin Money Giving or JustGiving. You can make a direct donation yourself, or set up a fundraising page and share your challenge with family and friends.

The 2.6 Challenge is open to anyone of any age – the only requirement is that the activity must follow the Government guidelines on exercise and social distancing. The current Government advice is that you should only go out once a day for exercise, either alone or with members of your household. You are urged to say local and always keep more than two metres away from other people at all times.

Cumbria Wildlife Trust staff have formed a team of 26+ runners (26 Go Wild For Wildlife) who will all individually run 2.6 miles on Sunday 26 April. Between them they hope to complete 2.6 marathons! More details here -just search for ‘26 Go Wild for Wildlife’.