Aaron Youd aka The Manchester Drummer is preparing to take on one of the UK’s toughest endurance challenges – carrying a full drum kit on his back across the UK’s three highest mountains to raise awareness around men’s mental health.
Aaron will attempt the extraordinary challenge in August climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon while transporting his drum kit between each peak before performing live drumming sessions at the summits themselves. The challenge is the first of its kind ever attempted.
Aaron, who has spent more than 27 years touring and performing across the UK and Europe, says the challenge has become deeply personal following the loss of six friends and fellow musicians to suicide in recent years. He is fundraising for Mandem Meetup, a charity focused on supporting men’s mental health and encouraging open conversations around emotional wellbeing.
Aaron said: “This challenge is about much more than endurance. It’s about raising awareness for mental health, encouraging people to speak openly, and raising as much money as possible for a cause that affects so many lives every day. I’ve lost six friends and colleagues to suicide and I know how important it is that people feel able to talk and ask for support.
“At each peak, I’ll be performing with the drums to spread the message that no one should struggle alone. Every step, every climb, and every beat played is dedicated to raising awareness and making a positive difference.”
Aaron’s journey has also led to a partnership with Therme Manchester after a chance encounter in Manchester city centre, when Therme UK CEO Professor David Russell spotted Aaron drumming and stopped to watch him perform. The meeting sparked a conversation that would eventually lead to Aaron being invited to perform at Therme Manchester’s landmark breaking ground event last September on the future site of the major wellbeing destination.
Following Aaron’s plans for the Three Peaks challenge, Therme Manchester stepped in to support his physical preparation and training programme from April through to September. This support is part of Therme Manchester’s overall social value programme delivering positive wellbeing impact for our local communities.
Professor David Russell said: “Aaron’s determination, creativity and honesty immediately stood out when I first saw him performing in Manchester.
“What he is attempting is extraordinary – both physically and emotionally – and we’re proud to support him as he prepares for this challenge and raises awareness around an issue that affects so many people.”
Aaron added: “Music has always been my outlet and my way of connecting with people. If this challenge encourages even one person to open up about how they’re feeling or seek help, then every difficult step will be worth it.”
