Kelsall teenager sets himself new challenge

Aug 25 2011 by Carmella de Lucia, Chester Chronicle

A TEENAGER who has just become the youngest person ever to scale the UK’s three highest mountains is setting up a wildlife group in his village.

Alex Staniforth, 16, from Kelsall, successfully climbed Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike in just under 22 hours as part of the National Three Peaks Challenge.

Now he has turned his attention to one of his favourite hobbies – wildlife photography.

Alex has joined forces with family friend and cameraman Ian Thomson, also from Kelsall, to set up a wildlife group in the village.

The pair will lead guided wildlife walks and photography coaching in the Primrose Wood and Delamere Forest areas, and are looking to recruit anyone with an interest in wildlife to join them.

“We’re looking to form a social group of local people who like wildlife or are interested in finding out more about it,” explained Alex, who had one of his wildlife photographs published in The Chronicle earlier this year.

“I know the area well from walking my dogs and know quite a bit about wildlife and photography so I thought I would give this a go.”

No previous experience is required to join the wildlife group but you will need to bring a camera, walking boots and old clothing, as the trek will involve exploring all parts of the forest.

For more information call Alex on 07891 841376, email alex@cheshire-wildlife.co.uk or visit www.cheshire-wildlife.co.uk.