Mollie’s Canine Climbing Buddy Makes Munro Debut

Famed for her solo expedition to the South Pole – the youngest women to ski unsupported to the South pole – this climb will be her dog, Sennen’s, first ever Munro.

The Edinburgh-based adventurer is supporting the event, which is raising funds for WaterAid projects in Malawi, by scaling Ben Vane in the Loch Lomond and Trossach National Park. At just over 3000ft in height it just makes the Munro grade – but is known for its steep ascent.

It will be Sennen’s first 3000ft-plus climb – and Mollie hopes it will be the first of many together.

“By climbing Scotland’s famed Munros and raising money to support projects in Malawi focused on community, early childhood development centres and healthcare facilities, we will be able to make an enormous difference.”

Mollie Hughes

Around 300 Scottish Water employees, friends, family members, and colleagues will take to the mountains on Saturday 4 June to support vital, life-changing work in Malawi where many people still don’t have access to clean water, decent toilets, and good hygiene.

Mollie said: “I am delighted to be taking part and supporting such an amazing cause. More than half of humanity relies on freshwater which comes from mountain sources. By climbing Scotland’s famed Munros and raising money to support projects in Malawi focused on community, early childhood development centres and healthcare facilities, we will be able to make an enormous difference.

“I have chosen to climb Ben Vane, it’s a hill I have never attempted before. It will be Sennen’s first Munro. We wanted to start on something not too challenging and then work her up to be a Munro-bagging companion in the future.”

Over the years the Munro Challenge has raised more than £1 million from across the water sector for WaterAid projects.

The 2022 event was scheduled to take place in 2020 but was postponed during the pandemic.

Elizabeth McKernan, WaterAid’s Partnership Manager for Scotland, said: “We are delighted Mollie is taking part along with all the other climbing groups heading up Munros this weekend. We hope everyone stays safe and enjoys the event. The funds raised from this event will make a lasting difference to communities in southern Malawi, helping children get the best start in live, and helping whole communities so stay healthy and thrive. Thank you to Mollie, Sennen, and all the event participants for your efforts in raising as much money as possible.’’

Scottish Water’s Head of Communication Andrew Walker, who is leading the challenge, said: “Scotland’s mountains are enjoyed by growing numbers of hikers, hillwalkers, and climbers so it is fantastic to bring added benefit to people in Malawi who don’t have access to the basic essentials of clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. I have seen WaterAid’s work in Malawi first-hand and know the difference it makes to have these essentials that everyone should have close to home. It is lifesaving.”

For more information on the event:
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