Inspirational young man gives something back

Gavin on a mountain

A Littleborough man has turned his life around for his dream job.

In September Gavin Cottrell, 23, returned to education with no real qualifications; having left school at 16, he had lived a difficult life of unsecure minimum wage jobs for 7 years. Career-wise, the future was bleak, although he desperately wished to one day be a psychiatrist.

The Access Department at Hopwood Hall College has helped Gavin to turn his life around; he has recently found out that, out of a possible 72 credits, he scored 69 distinctions and 3 merits.

Recently, Gavin has been inspired to attempt the National Three Peaks Challenge by his own personal experience and also by a moving story.

Gavin’s friend suggested that they should attempt the National Three Peaks 24 hour Challenge.

Gavin said: “I did like this idea but wasn’t fully committed until I read an autobiographical account by both Jane and Mike Tomlinson of their cycling trip across America.

“Reading this autobiography sparked something in me. I knew then that I should definitely attempt the aforementioned challenge.

“I approached Derek O’Toole (Principal of Hopwood Hall College) in the hope that I may receive sponsorship from the College. Derek duly obliged and within weeks I had acquired the equipment needed for the challenge.”

Gavin added: “I believe that in achieving my aim, I may set an example to others, that despite your current circumstances, you can achieve. It's a case of putting mind over matter.”

The Three Peaks Challenge will take place on the 25 and 26of July starting at Fort William and ending at the car park at the end of the PYG track at Pen Y Pass (Foot of Mt Snowdon).

Gavin is hoping to raise £500 for the Jane Tomlinson Appeal. Donations can be made to justgiving.com/gavin-cottrell

The Hopwood Hall College wishes Gavin all the best.