Alex Easton MP has issued a detailed update on his upcoming charity expedition to climb Mount Kilimanjaro this August, highlighting the impressive progress of his fundraising campaign and extending heartfelt thanks to the public and local businesses for their extraordinary generosity and support.
The climb — one of the most physically and mentally demanding challenges in the world — is being undertaken in aid of two outstanding local causes: Bangor Food Bank and UHub Mental Health Charity. Both charities are vital pillars of support for individuals and families across North Down, offering emergency food assistance and professional mental health support, respectively.
Over recent weeks, Mr Easton has been heavily engaged in a rigorous training programme to prepare for the high-altitude ascent. He has completed several tough treks across the Mourne Mountains, accompanied by the close friends who will also take part in the Kilimanjaro expedition. Notably, his loyal dog Bailie has become a regular feature of the training walks — enthusiastically tackling the rugged terrain and providing both morale and companionship on the journey.
“The training so far has been both challenging and incredibly uplifting,” said Mr Easton. “Climbing Kilimanjaro is not something you can take lightly, and I’ve been putting in the hours to ensure I’m ready — physically and mentally. Having my friends and my dog Bailie with me on the trails has made all the difference. They’ve kept my spirits high and reminded me daily of the reason I’m doing this: to help those in our community who are facing their own, often unseen, mountains.”
As part of the wider fundraising campaign, Mr Easton is hosting a Charity Fundraising Dinner at the Clandeboye Lodge on Friday, 7th June 2025, and the response from the community has been remarkable. To date, 17 tables have already been sold, and Mr Easton’s JustGiving page has raised in excess of £7,000 — with donations still coming in steadily.
The event is expected to be a highlight of the year, bringing together supporters, constituents, local business leaders, and community figures for an evening of fine dining, entertainment, and a shared commitment to charitable giving.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the response to the dinner,” Mr Easton continued. “I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has purchased tickets or tables, and to the many individuals and companies who have donated so generously — not only financially, but also by providing an incredible range of prizes for our charity ballot and auction.”
Local businesses and supporters have contributed a wide variety of high-quality items and experiences, ranging from hampers, restaurant vouchers and luxury goods, to weekend getaways and exclusive services — all of which will go under the hammer or be included in the ballot on the night of the event.
“The kindness of our local community has been truly humbling,” said Mr Easton. “Whether it’s been a business donating a service, a family giving what they can through JustGiving, or someone simply offering a word of encouragement, every gesture has helped build momentum and bring us closer to our fundraising goal.”
There are still a limited number of places available for the dinner. Tables of 10 are available at £1,000, with individual seats priced at £100. All proceeds from the dinner — including ticket sales, auction income, and ballot proceeds — will be directed entirely to Bangor Food Bank and UHub Mental Health Charity.
The climb itself, scheduled for August 2025, will take Mr Easton and his team to an altitude of 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) as they aim to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro — a feat that demands serious endurance, preparation, and resolve.
“This will be one of the toughest things I’ve ever done, but it’s nothing compared to what some families are facing every day — be it food insecurity or mental health struggles. The aim is simple: to raise as much as we can, raise awareness, and to say loudly that nobody in our community should face hardship alone.”
Updates on training progress, fundraising milestones, and preparations for the dinner can be found on Alex Easton MP’s official Facebook page, where followers can also enjoy behind-the-scenes glimpses of Bailie’s Mountain adventures and regular thank-yous to sponsors and donors. The JustGiving page remains open to anyone who wishes to contribute directly.
“This is a cause that unites people,” Mr Easton concluded. “It’s about compassion, community, and stepping up when others are struggling. I’m proud to be a part of it, and I invite everyone to get involved — whether it’s by joining us at the dinner, donating online, or simply spreading the word.”
To book a table, purchase individual tickets, or donate to the cause, please contact the office of Alex Easton MP or visit his official Facebook and JustGiving pages.
Alex Easton MP
Member of Parliament for North Down
