Wooden Spoon challenges and the environment

Wooden Spoon Challenges has earned a reputation as one of the best organised and most environmentally aware charity challenge organisers in the UK. We develop challenges that are tough, safe, tremendous fun and achievable, but we are also aware of our potential impact on the environment.

As early as 1996, we became involved with the Institute of Fundraising (then the Institute of Charity Fundraising Managers) and were instrumental in developing the original code of practice for organisers of outdoor challenges. All our challenges adhere to this and to the Countryside Code of Conduct.

Liaising with landowners

With the Four Peaks, the Ford Ranger Great Lakeland and End 2 End Challenges, we liaise with local landowners and organisations to understand and plan our events with the environment, local people and businesses in mind. In our communications with the teams that take part in the Spoon Challenges, we make sure we emphasise the importance of caring for the environment.

In 2001, the Wooden Spoon Four Peaks challenge route in the Lake District was altered to take in Helvellyn rather than Scafell. This was as a result of the continued rise in similar three peaks charity events and the growing number of teams we have attracted. With main road access to the M6 and an excellent working relationship with United Utilities, who allow us to use its car park, we found a win-win solution for all involved.

Local environment support

Over the years the Wooden Spoon challenge team has forged and continues to maintain good relations with the organisations that help to conserve and enhance the countryside. We make donations each year to a wide variety of organisations, including The National Trust, Killarney Mountain Rescue and the Highland Council. These donations are used for path restoration and other conservation projects.

Spoon track record

The Wooden Spoon challenges team has an enviable track record among event organisers, as evidenced by comments in an issue of the Lakeland newsletter, Wasdale News: