The great outdoors

Photo of participants who survived the Blue Cross Wilderness Weekend

Raise funds for Blue Cross pets by stepping out of your comfort zone and making the most of what the great British countryside has to offer...

A chance to experience life in the wild, combined with a passion for helping pets, led Blue Cross supporter Lauren Hazell to spend a weekend learning to survive on her own, Bear Grylls style.

Lauren, who rehomed stray Jack Russell terrier Brian four years ago, says: “I wanted to do something different that would challenge me and had a realistic fundraising target to aim for.”

Lauren raised a fantastic £180 for pets in need.

If the idea of leaving the daily grind of modern life behind fills you with joy then this could be the challenge for you, too.

Camped in a secret location in deepest, darkest Oxfordshire, the Blue Cross Survival Challenge teaches you all the techniques you need to survive in the wild. Be prepared for all weathers, as a little thing like rain won’t prevent this challenge from going ahead.

You will live on rations and sleep under the stars, with just a sheet of tarpaulin for shelter.

For those who think they’re brave enough, Lauren has a few words of advice: “It’s not for the faint hearted, and if you like your home comforts you might struggle, but if you want to get back to basics it’s definitely for you.”

— Page last updated 25/04/2019