SET yourself a goal for 2019 and tackle the three peaks of Dorset, taking in views across Beaminster and beyond.

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, is urging people to take part in their Dorset 3 Peaks challenge, a 12-hour hike across the Dorset hills.

Participants will trek across the Wessex Ridgeway and to the peaks of Lewesdon Hill near Beaminster, Pilsdon Pen in the Marshwood Vale and Bulbarrow Hill near Blandford Forum.

These are the three biggest peaks in Dorset and within one day, those taking part will be ascending a combined height of 1,357 metres – higher than Ben Nevis.

Sue Reid, events manager at Diverse Abilities, said: “This is definitely a unique trekking experience and a great opportunity for those that enjoy walking or just love spectacular views.

“This is a perfect challenge for those wanting to step out of their comfort zone and set themselves a target for 2019.”

Martin Cypher was one of the participants that took part in the challenge last year with three colleagues. As a group they decided to take on the challenge as it was something new and a great way to explore the higher grounds of west and north Dorset.

He said: “One of my favourite parts of signing up for the challenge was that my colleagues were joining me, which meant we could all train together. This helped us to really bond before the event itself and we all shared a common goal.

“It was also a good challenge for us all to see how much we could raise individually for Diverse Abilities as we all got quite competitive. In total we raised £6,000 so we were extremely pleased.

“In terms of the challenge itself, the scenery was great, and it was made even better by the super sunshine.

“The camaraderie amongst all the walkers was also fantastic. We all supported one another in lots of ways to make it through the day and we all certainly will remember the challenge with many fond memories.

“In addition, the support provided by both the charity and trek guides was first class and probably the best I have ever experienced on any challenge event I have done over recent years.”

To take part in the Dorset 3 Peaks event on September 14, an entry fee of £35 applies and a minimum fundraising target of £265.

The money raises could achieve the daily cost to run the advice service to provide support, specialist toys for children with disabilities to play with, a day’s medical supplies for the children at the charity’s specialist school and much more.

For more information, visit www.dorsetabilities.org.uk