Hundreds to take on Scalp Mountain Challenge

Around 350 people from Derry and Donegal are expected to take part in the eighth annual Scalp Mountain Challenge taking place this afternoon.

The event in organised by the local Concern Worldwide group in Derry to raise funds for the organisation’s work at tackling hunger with the most vulnerable people in the world.

The challenge is to make it up Henry’s Highway, a 2.7 mile pathway which snakes its way to the top of Scalp Mountain.

The private concrete road to the 1600ft summit was built by Burnfoot farmer Henry McLaughlin.

On a good day, the views from the top can be spectacular stretching over Lough Foyle and Swilly, Inch Island, the Sperrins and the hills of Inishowen.

Charlie Glenn from the Concern Support Group in Derry said: “It’s become a bit of a tradition now. We’ve been doing this since 2008 and people have coame to expect it at this time of the year.

“The challenge is open to both serious walkers as well as those who prefer a more leisurely Sunday afternoon stroll to the summit.

“We’ve had exceptionally good weather over the years, but last year was so wet - I hope that doesn’t put people off. We’ll keep our fingers crossed for plenty of sunshine this year, but the challenge will go ahead regardless.”

The challenge gets underway at 3.00pm.