Well, indirectly. We’ll leave Lucy Wood to explain…
An intrepid group of schoolfriends braved one of the UK’s longest tunnels to raise funds for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Borneo.
THE adventurous pupils from Honley High School, in the Holme Valley, West Yorkshire, took on navigating the cold, murky waters of Standedge Tunnel. Located in the heart of the Pennines, the 200-year-old tunnel is one of the longest and deepest in the UK, stretching more than three miles.
In early February, the group and two teachers paddled through its dark, waterlogged interior, contending with freezing temperatures and unpredictable weather, not to mention the structure’s low ceilings and narrow passageways.
The 10 pupils – Julian Thompson, Daisy Patterson, Misty Boothroyd, Jackson Newton, Billy Waddington, Isla Fitzpatrick, Ellie Reilly, Finn Reilly, Harry Whitehead and Sophie Brown – alongside teachers Miss Nash and Miss Hall passed an ambitious and demanding test of endurance and teamwork.
“It is a case of mission accomplished for Honley High’s Canoe Winter Challenge,” said Charlotte Thompson, Julian’s mum.
“They set off in freezing conditions, battled through water curtains, and even took an unexpected dip, but they made it.
“The challenge wasn’t without drama – 650 feet below Redbrook Reservoir, one canoe capsized, plunging two paddlers into the icy water. But in true Honley spirit, they were swiftly rescued, back in their boat, and paddling again within minutes. With 30 minutes left to go, the teams pressed on, soaked to the skin but determined to finish.
“Then, the moment they’d been fighting for came – arriving at Marsden’s tunnel end to the sound of huge crowds cheering them on. Family, friends, and supporters lined the canal, celebrating their incredible achievement.
“They did so well. I loved the whole event and how everyone came to see them at the end. The atmosphere was electric.”
The challenge was a fundraiser for the pupils’ trip to Borneo in July next year. They are joining 15 others to learn about Borneo’s incredible ecosystems, engage with local communities, and take part in environmental conservation efforts. Many have been working within their local areas and organising events to raise the required funds, and the canoe challenge was a final push to reach their targets.
