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Director of Lower Bush Alpacas in Cuxton to join Dame Kelly Homes in multi-day Machu Picchu trek

16:11, 15 May 2024

updated: 11:32, 23 May 2024

An alpaca farm boss is set to join Dame Kelly Holmes in a multi-day trek across Peru to reach Machu Picchu.

Director of Lower Bush Alpacas in Cuxton, Jonathon Savage will hike thousands of metres above sea level when he joins the former British Olympic champion in South America.

The "Alpaca man" will join Dame Kelly Holmes in her charity trek
The "Alpaca man" will join Dame Kelly Holmes in her charity trek

Jonathon said he was inspired when he saw a social media post by Dame Kelly.

The athlete, who lives in Hildenborough, near Tonbridge and owns five pet alpacas herself, said the challenge will raise money for her namesake charity.

The Dame Kelly Holmes Trust empowers disadvantaged youth to be “champions” through sports and mentoring programs.

Jonathon added: “In my role on the farm as the Alpaca Man and also as a respected member of our village, I am always there to be a champion to those that need one.”

The ten-day-long hike will take place along the Andes Mountains in Peru.

Jonathon is taking part in the hike for his son, Harry
Jonathon is taking part in the hike for his son, Harry

The dad, who is also a coach for Cuxton 91 Warriors under 8 football team, said he is also taking part for his son.

“Harry has autism and finds it hard to understand instructions and struggles with regulating his emotions.

“Please help us raise some money for young people who need a champion by their side, just like my Harry has me.”

Kent-based Kelly Holmes who won double gold at the Athens Olympics is taking part in the challenge. Picture by Matthew Walker
Kent-based Kelly Holmes who won double gold at the Athens Olympics is taking part in the challenge. Picture by Matthew Walker

If you would like to sponsor Jonathon in the challenge, you can donate here.

He is hoping to raise £3000 ahead of the trek in September.

The ancient city of Machu Picchu, located near Cuzzo, is believed to have been home to an ancient Inca civilization virtually wiped out by Spanish invaders in the 16th century.

The site stretches over an impressive five-mile distance, featuring more than 3,000 stone steps that link its many different levels.

Today, hundreds of thousands of people travel to Machu Picchu every year, braving crowds and landslides to witness its mysterious wonder.

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