Well, Day 3 certainly wasn’t one for the postcards.

Andy and Josh set off from Rosthwaite this morning with determination, and reasonably dry clothes. Unfortunately, only one of those things survived the day.

The weather was absolutely relentless. Torrential rain, howling winds, and enough water falling from the sky to make them question whether they were walking through the Lake District or attempting to cross the Atlantic. Every item of clothing they own is now varying degrees of damp, soaked, or completely saturated. At one point, even the waterproofs seemed to give up and accept their fate.

Despite the conditions, the lads somehow managed to clock up an impressive 14 miles.

The miles are beginning to take their toll. Feet are blistered, legs are aching, and there may have been some colourful language aimed at a few particularly steep hills. But they’re not letting any of it get the better of them. The reason they’re doing this is far bigger than a few blisters and soggy socks.

They’re continuing this challenge to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health, a cause that means a great deal to them both. There was a real reminder of that today when they got chatting to a gentleman they met along the route. After hearing about the challenge and the cause behind it, he very kindly made a donation. Moments like that provide a huge boost when the weather is trying its very best to break your spirit.

After a long day battling the elements, they’ve finally arrived at camp and managed to get the tents up. Calling it “setting up camp” might be generous—it was more of a frantic race against the rain while trying not to lose tent pegs to the wind.

And just when they thought things couldn’t get any more character-building, they discovered the campsite boiler is broken. That’s right—no hot water. After 14 miles in biblical rain, dreams of a warm shower have been cruelly snatched away.

The forecast? More rain. Lots more rain. In fact, it’s expected to continue throughout the night. The tents are now facing their toughest challenge yet: keeping two exhausted walkers dry enough to function tomorrow.

Here’s hoping Day 4 brings a little sunshine, or at the very least a cloud that has finally run out of water. A working boiler wouldn’t go amiss either.

Thank you to everyone who has supported, donated, shared the fundraiser, and sent messages of encouragement. It really does make a difference and helps keep Andy and Josh putting one foot in front of the other.

The challenge continues.

Three days down. Twelve to go!