A father and daughter duo finished their epic fundraising challenge in style with a 30-mile trek through the Peak District under the cover of darkness.

Darren and Thea Bristow, from Sheffield, covered 50 miles over six days through the picturesque landscape before finishing with a 30-mile night hike. The duo completed their epic trek on what was the “best Father’s Day ever” and marked the occasion with a well-earned breakfast at Thornbridge Hall, Ashford in the Water.

The duo took their inspiration from the ‘The Golden Miles’ – a book of hiking routes inspired by the adventures of Gillian Scotford and her courageous son Tom who died at Bluebell Wood aged 21 in 2017.

“Thea works for Tom’s brother Max so we already knew all about the family and the amazing care and support they received at Bluebell Wood,” said Darren, 54.

“Knowing that I’m a keen trail runner, Thea gave me a copy of The Golden Miles and we got chatting and decided to do all the shorter walks in the book and then combine them into the long one to finish the challenge.

“So, considering our connection, it made perfect sense to take on the challenge in support of Bluebell Wood.”

Throughout the week the duo were joined by various friends and family members, but it was just the two of them for the moon-lit finale.

“It really was a magical experience to do it that way,” Darren added.

“We talked a lot and it was great to spend that time together, and there were lots of quiet moments too where we just enjoyed the surroundings.

“Thea is studying animal management too which came in very handy when we had to negotiate three horses and a bunch of cows with calves during the night walk!”

Darren and Thea, 17, smashed their fundraising target, raising an incredible £1,150 to help support children and families at Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

Isobel Wells, Regional Fundraiser at Bluebell Wood, said: “We’re delighted that Darren and Thea got so much from the experience - and what a fantastic way to mark Father’s Day!

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to the duo and everyone who supported them along the way, and a special mention for the brilliant Gillian for all her work on the Golden Miles.”

If you’d like to take on a memorable event with a loved one in support of Bluebell Wood, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.