On Friday, August 16, Lee Strawbridge completed another one of his gruelling challenges to gather funds for the most important event in Ottery St Mary, Tar Barrels.

Lee had been training by carrying the barrel through town, and a week before the challenge, he climbed High Willhayes Tor and Yes Tor, the highest points in Devon.

Before he headed to Wales, he asked his followers to name the barrel, and after a tremendous and most amusing response, the name chosen was Darrel. Equally, Lee asked his followers to suggest songs that would help him stay motivated during the climb. Numerous titles were suggested, including "You Can Do It" or "Carry That Weight," which proved that nothing beats the Ottery community when it comes to originality.

After the challenge, we chatted with Lee, and this is his account of the challenge: "I've received great support from the community and have raised £4,200 so far. The barrel weighs between 35-38kg and has been named Darrell after an online vote. 

"It took 2 hours 40 minutes to reach the summit and 2 hours to bring it back down as there was no room on the train for it! The hardest part was battling cramps in my thighs from about 3/4 of the way up; when the terrain turned from gravel to large steps and uneven stones, it took a toll on the thighs.

"The music requests from people who had sponsored me really helped, as some beats set a pace, and others made me laugh. My support group of friends and family (my nine-year-old daughter also made it to the summit, which I was very proud of) kept me going, as did other people walking up as they were cheering me on.

"I got really lucky with the weather as it was warm and not too windy. We also got some great pictures as it was so clear. I also took the barrel to our fundraising classic car show last Sunday so that anyone could see it!"

We are looking forward to Lee's challenge for next year; we understand he is already planning it.