EMBSAY youngster Luke Mortimer, who lost his limbs to septicaemia after contracting meningitis four years ago, has set himself the challenge of climbing all 656ft of Embsay Crag as a thanks to charities which have helped him.

The brave and confident 10-year-old has shown how plucky he is by taking everything in his stride. He spent six months in Sheffield Children's Hospital and left in 2020 as a quad amputee after surgeons were forced to operate on his arms and legs to save his life. He rewarded those who saved him by showing how plucky he is and by teaching himself to be as independent as possible.

Last year he received the first of his 'hero' robotic arms which he controls with muscles in his upper arm. They cost many thousands of pounds each and he will need replacements as he grows.

Several charities have helped raise funding for Luke so he can get about and play like other children. He is now preparing to walk to the top of Embsay Crag, a landmark near his home, to raise money for two charities which have helped him and which continue to help others - Children in Need and LimbPower.

Adam, Luke's father said: "Since leaving hospital, Luke has overcome many difficulties. He wanted to give back to some of the charities that have helped him. Without them he wouldn't be in a position to climb Embsay crag. 
"I can't believe that in the relatively short time since his amputations Luke is taking on this challenge. It will be one of the longest and highest walks he has ever done." 

Adam added that Luke is doing well with his hero arm though it is taking a lot of time to learn a new way of doing things.

The walk is starting and finishing at Craven Sailing Club, Pasture Road, Embsay, on Saturday, November 4, from 10am. 

There will also be a bake sale in the sailing club where you can pop in for homemade refreshments, before, during, or after, your walk.

Everyone is welcome to join Luke and his parents, Adam and Christine, and older brother, Harry, on the day. He is hoping to raise £500 for the two charities so they can continue to help other children like him.

Anyone wishing to donate to Luke's fundraising challenge can do so at: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/adam-mortimer-4

You can also follow Luke's progress and read more of his story from his Facebook page: 'ThisisLuke' 

There is also a section where donations can be made towards his rehabilitation.