Councillor Completes all 214 Wainright Walks

Previously coined a Champion for promoting walking to tackle physical and mental health challenges, a Blackburn based Councillor has reached another milestone.

Councillor Mustafa Desai, ward councillor for Little Harwood and Whitebirk has prioritised walking for many years.

His favourite way of walking is mountain hiking, and in 2022, he decided to take part in the Wainwright challenge.

It’s a challenge that sees hikers attempt to climb all 214 English peaks described in Alfred Wainwright’s seven-volume Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells and despite doing many of them before, Councillor Desai decided to revisit every single one of them and record his achievement with a photo on top of each mountain.

Only two years later in September 2024, he had completed all 214 peaks.

Upon asking Councillor Desai which peak he found most challenging and why, he said that there were various reasons that the peaks became challenging, some due to terrain, some due to weather and some due to the distance and inclination.

When I first did Skiddaw, it was in the midst of winter; the weather made it immensely challenging. Gale force winds, snow and ice along the route and very poor visibility.

Despite completing the huge milestone of walking all Wainwright routes, Councillor Desai continues to relish a challenge.

He’s currently two thirds of the way through the Welsh 3000’s, a mountain challenge in Snowdonia National Park involving hiking all 15 peaks exceeding 3,000 feet in height; and he’s also started the Scottish Munros, a challenge which sees hiking Scottish mountains that are 3,000 feet or higher.

The distance element and the remoteness of the latter will provide a good challenge.

On alternate weeks Councillor Desai also walks with his hiking group. Called Lakeland Hikes, it’s a group he started during COVID to support the wellbeing of local people.

The group then progressed onto more challenging hikes; and can be seen hiking in many of the UK’s National parks, from the Lake District to the Yorkshire Dales and Snowdonia too.

Open to all, you can find them on Instagram and they also have a WhatsApp group. To join, Councillor Desai encourages you to message him directly on 07812 488962.

If you fancy taking up mountain hiking in your spare time, Councillor Desai has some tips for you. Anyone new to mountain climbing, should:

1. Start small: Begin with smaller, more manageable climbs to build experience and confidence.
2. Get proper gear: Invest in suitable clothing, footwear, and equipment for the climb; weather can change very quickly in the mountains.
3. Find a guide or mentor: Climbing with an experienced guide or mentor can provide valuable guidance and support.
4. Assess your physical condition: Ensure you’re physically prepared for the climb and take regular breaks.
5. Plan and prepare: Research the route, weather, and potential hazards.
6. Stay hydrated and fuelled: Bring sufficient water and snacks to maintain energy levels.
7. Be aware of your limits: Know when to turn back if conditions become too challenging.
8. Respect the environment: Follow ‘Leave No Trace’ principles and respect local regulations.

Most importantly, prioritise safety and enjoy the experience.

Happy hiking!