The Vamps’ lead guitarist and singer James McVey is raising money and awareness for local children’s hospice Julia’s House, by taking on the charity’s virtual Seven Wonders of the World fitness challenge.
The musician and former ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!’ star is a long term supporter and Patron of the charity, which cares for some of the most seriously ill children and their families across Dorset and Wiltshire.
After completing the Machu Picchu challenge through the virtual app earlier this year, James decided to take on all seven wonders of the world for Julia’s House with a combination of running and cycling – 883 miles in total. He’s since completed the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal, and is now on his way to Christ the Redeemer.
James says, “I like to challenge myself with things out of my comfort zone. Taking on all seven challenges definitely fits into that category! In a world where not much else can properly be planned in my calendar at the moment, something like this is brilliant; it’s given me something to work on and look forward to.”
The trained nurses and carers at Julia’s House provide medical, practical and emotional care for families of children with life-limited conditions – in the home, in the community and in the charity’s hospices in Corfe Mullen and in Devizes, Wiltshire.
Growing up near the Corfe Mullen hospice, James remembers driving past on his way to Corfe Hills School when he was a pupil there.
“When I first visited the hospice, I had a chance to see for myself just how inspiring the children, parents and staff are,” he says. “It’s vital that we remember that charities like Julia’s House are still working, regardless of whether businesses and leisure facilities are open. It’s crucial that we do all we can in this difficult time to support our charities, especially those who don’t receive Government funding.”
After having to cancel all its major fundraising events last year, Julia’s House has made sure its latest physical fundraiser is 100% lockdown-friendly, in order to combat the devastating effect the pandemic has had on its funding. With the charity’s Seven Wonders of the World fitness challenge, you can travel virtually to some of the most awe-inspiring sites across the globe, while hitting fitness milestones and supporting local families in need.
The Vamps star hopes to complete all seven wonders before the band’s rescheduled UK tour starts in September, including O2 Academy Bournemouth on 18 September. Head to thevamps.net/dates/ for more information.
Find out more about Julia’s House and the Seven Wonders of the World fitness challenge at www.juliashouse.org/seven-wonders