Young Reds finish three-peak challenge

This was part of their bronze Duke of Edinburgh award and it was certainly the toughest but a fantastic experience that the 10 lads who took part in it will never forget as they took part in the 26-and-a-half-mile course.

Covering around 13 miles a day, the Academy boys carried provisions like water, food, clothing and a tent inside their rucksack.

On the first day, they walked from point A to point B, set their tents up, cooked their own tea from limited provisions and after a somewhat uncomfortable night's sleep awoke to face the prospect of another 13-and-a-half-mile trek.

Two years ago, the Yorkshire three-peak challenge was undertaken by members of staff and players from Liverpool as a major fundraising event in memory of Stephen Packer, the U9 player who sadly passed away in November 2012.

Phil Roscoe, head of education and welfare at the Academy, told Liverpoolfc.com: "For the past several seasons we have incorporated the Duke of Edinburgh award into the educational programme for our players at Rainhill High School, particularly the U15 and U16 age group.

"We feel it is really important for our players that we give them the most normal childhood experience possible. We feel this is great for their development.

"The three-peak challenge not only involves a great deal of stamina and strength, but also navigational skills to get through the course.

"The reason why we only had 10 players was down to injuries and some players being called up for the U17 European Championships in Bulgaria.

"I would like to thank Caitlin Hawkins and Nicola Ericson from Rainhill and also several staff from the Academy completed the walk with me as well, and a special thank you to Alfresco Adventures Limited who helped us set the trip up.

"The quickest group came in at nine hours, 30 minutes, and the others came in around the 10-hour mark."