A farming family is preparing to take on a gruelling 24-hour shearing challenge in memory of three young people while raising money for charity.
The 24-hour shearathon and charity speed shear will take place from Friday, July 31, to Saturday, August 1, with Andrew Bell-Percy and Richard Lancaster attempting to shear lambs continuously for 24 hours.
The Shear Aware event is being held in memory of Aaron Bell, from Jervaulx, who was killed by a dangerous driver in July 2022 aged 18, and aims to raise money for Brake, the road safety charity, while highlighting the devastating consequences of dangerous driving.
Andrew’s son, Luke Bell-Percy, will also take part by completing a junior mini Shearathon in memory of his older brother.
The event will also support two further charities in memory of Hannah Brown, who lived near Appleby and died from sepsis in 2021 aged 26, and Will Pedley, of Barbon, near Carnforth, who died in 2025 aged 15.
Funds raised will go to the UK Sepsis Trust and PAPYRUS, the charity dedicated to preventing young suicide.
Aaron’s mum, Nicola Bell-Percy, said: “This challenge will need sheer determination, both physically and mentally, from the lads, but we will also need the support of our family, friends and community to make this challenge possible and raise as much money as possible for our chosen charities.”
The Shearathon will conclude with a charity speed shear competition before supporters are invited to stay for live music and refreshments.
Organisers hope the event will not only raise vital funds but also spread awareness through their “Shear Aware” campaign.
Nicola added: “Our mission is to raise awareness so no other families have to go through what we have had to and will have to carry for the rest of our lives.”
Members of the public are invited to attend the event, show their support and donate towards the fundraising effort for Brake, the UK Sepsis Trust and PAPYRUS.
For more information on the event, click here.
To donate to the appeal, click here.
Good Luck in your endeavors.
Is there going to be a donating page?