THIRTEEN hikers from Yate are set to climb three mountains this summer in order to fund children’s projects in Albania.

The group of friends are all members of Christ the Rock Christian Fellowship in Yate, which organises annual trips to the city of Korce to provide support to an orphanage, street children, old people’s home and safe house.

Starting on Friday, June 9, the team will commence the famous 'Three Peak Challenge’, which involves climbing the highest mountains of England, Scotland and Wales within just 24 hours.

Those taking part include: Jason Rogers, Ian Bright, Chris Bright, Jack Hopkins, Callum Cornock, Ashton Coleman, Rikki Tainton, Ian Rowsell, Karl Goode, Tim Lawrence, Dereck Morton, Tom Williams and Charlie Griffee.

Among the group is 43-year-old Ian Bright, who has been going to Albania for seven years alongside his wife Karen and their two sons Jacob, 11, and Ethan, 7.

He explained that the missionary work makes a “real difference” to people’s lives.

“We’ve been going out there each summer for quite some time now, and it’s a very worthwhile cause,” he said.

"My role is to organise football camps and tournaments for the children, which we fund by completing fundraising challenges each year."

Although this year's fundraiser will challenge all of the group, it is likely to be even more difficult for window cleaner Ian. 

During last year’s trip to Albania, he hit his head on the bottom of a pool and seriously injured his upper spine.

He said: “I am not sure if I am physically going to be able to finish the three peaks, but I am willing to give it a go because I want to help raise as much money as possible for the children in Albania.

“I would also like to thank family and friends for the support following my accident, as well as Danielle Golton the physiotherapist who supported me in my recovery.”

If you would like to donate to the group's Three Peaks Challenge, visit their fundraising page here.