5th October 2026

Clergy assault course challenge boosts Bishop’s Harvest Appeal

More than 50 clergy from across Lancashire, led by the Bishop of Blackburn, Rt Rev Philip North, swapped pulpits for mud pits as they took on a challenging assault course to raise funds for this year's Bishop's Harvest Appeal.

The event at Whitehough Outdoor Centre in Barley saw clergy in dog collars scrambling over obstacles, wading through mud and cheering one another on across a morning of challenges, determination, laughter and teamwork. There was also some fancy dress on display, with Bishop Jill Duff embracing the occasion by dressing as a lobster, and Archdeacon Jane Atkinson riding an inflatable pony.

Adding to the fun were many of the clergy children who attended in force, forming what could only be described as a children's army. Ambushing the clergy; these enthusiastic young supporters ensured that nobody escaped the morning clean and dry as they armed themselves with water pistols and water balloons. Not content with soaking the participants, the children later took on the assault course themselves, tackling the obstacles with just as much energy and determination as their parents.

Every year, Bishop Philip finds imaginative ways to inspire parishes, schools and supporters across Lancashire to get involved in the Harvest Appeal, and this year's assault course challenge proved to be one of the most adventurous yet. The event was held to raise funds for Liwolo in South Sudan, one of Blackburn Diocese's link Dioceses. The money raised will help respond to the challenges facing local communities during the current crisis, while also supporting the development of the Jehovah Rapha Healthcare Centre. Together, these projects will provide much-needed healthcare and practical support, offering hope and tangible assistance where it is needed most.

Hundreds of donations have already been received through sponsorship and fundraising linked to the event, with money continuing to be collected in churches across the County in support of the appeal. Many local schools have also embraced the challenge by creating their own mini assault courses and fundraising activities, including indoor obstacle challenges and silly sock races.

All the funds raised will help provide medicines, healthcare provision, solar lighting, clean water and support for frontline medical staff serving communities in Liwolo and comes at a critical time for the region.

Healthcare services there are under increasing pressure following the planned withdrawal of support from Médecins Sans Frontières and amid the continuing impact of recent crises.

The day was captured on the social media channels of Bishop Philip on Facebook and Instagram in collaboration with the social channels of the Diocese and the Diocesan Board of Education. Participants also shared photographs and videos across the morning on their own personal channels for reposts.

Speaking on the day, Bishop Philip commented:

"It was an absolutely brilliant day. I can’t believe how many of our clergy were willing to get stuck in for a wonderful cause and the spirit of encouragement and generosity was incredible.

"There was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the morning. Whether it was watching Bishop Jill's lobster costume make its way around the course, seeing Archdeacon Jane gallop past on her inflatable pony, or dodging surprise attacks from the children’s army.

"I’m so grateful to everyone who took part, everyone who volunteered and all those who have sponsored, donated and supported the appeal directly through the assault course challenge or more generally.

"Every pound raised will help bring hope and essential healthcare to communities in South Sudan. Together we have shown what can be achieved when people come together in compassion and love."

Fundraising for the Harvest Appeal will continue as churches, schools and supporters across Lancashire gather in donations. The final total will be announced in due course.

Anyone wishing to continue supporting the appeal can find details and make a donation on the parish giving scheme website or by visiting http://www.blackburn.anglican.org and searching for "Harvest Appeal".

Captions for the above pictures, top to bottom:
Pictures by Matt Dobie for Blackburn Diocese

1/ Whole group photo of all those completing the assault course

2/ Rev Cathy Malins under the cargo net crawl

3/ The Bishop’s Chaplain: Rev Dr Andy Meeson leaping over the wooden wall

4/ Rev Jonny Lee on the climbing wall

5/ Rev Joe Kochanski and Rev Hannah Boyd with their finishing medals