On Sunday morning, 10 May, our founder, Debbie North, was involved in a car collision that resulted in the newly acquired Access the Dales (ATD) van being a write-off. Just hours earlier, many of our team, volunteers, friends, and supporters had gathered at the Bradford Waterstones launch of Debbie’s new book, Access Adventure. It had been an evening filled with laughter, celebration, and excitement for the months ahead. Waking up the next morning to such devastating news left us all stunned.
Debbie had collected the van from our new lock-up unit, where we’ve recently begun storing equipment as ATD continues to grow. She was preparing to load everything needed for the upcoming Keswick Mountain Festival in the Lake District — one of the key events in our calendar and something the whole team had been looking forward to. But early that Sunday morning, everything changed in an instant.
Emergency services had to cut Debbie from the vehicle at the scene before she was transported to Halifax Infirmary for treatment. We cannot express enough gratitude to the fire and rescue crews, paramedics, and hospital staff whose swift actions, professionalism, and care made such a difference during an incredibly frightening situation. Their kindness and dedication have meant a great deal to Debbie, her family, and all of us at ATD.
Right now, the most important thing is Debbie’s recovery. She is receiving the medical treatment and support she needs, and our focus as a team is making sure she has the time, space, and care required to heal properly. We know many people will be concerned and want updates, and we’ll share information when appropriate and with Debbie’s permission.
As a community organisation built around adventure, inclusion, and resilience, we’ve always faced challenges head-on together. This situation is no different, although it will inevitably affect some of our plans over the coming months.
Several events will now need to be postponed or cancelled while we regroup and assess what we can realistically manage in the short term. An email is being sent to everyone who volunteered to help push the youngsters up Whernside on 4 June to let them know that the event has been postponed until September. We know how much enthusiasm there was around the challenge, and we truly appreciate everyone who stepped forward to help make it happen.
Unfortunately, our family camp and festival planned for July will also be cancelled this year. We understand this will be disappointing for many families who were looking forward to coming together again, and this was not a decision taken lightly. Likewise, the Watercut Walk will now be postponed until later in the year, with new dates to be announced once we are in a stronger position operationally.
Our ATD hubs should continue to run independently thanks to the incredible dedication of our hub hosts and volunteers. However, if you experience any issues or need support, please contact your hub hosts directly while we manage communications and logistics behind the scenes.
One of the immediate practical challenges we now face is the loss of the van itself. For many people, a vehicle is simply transport. For ATD, it was far more than that. The van carried adaptive equipment, camping gear, event supplies, and the resources that make our adventures accessible to disabled people and families across the region. Losing it so suddenly has had a significant impact on our operations.
We are currently assessing alternative transport options and reviewing what activities and commitments we can safely deliver in the weeks ahead. We are also continuing to evaluate our plans for Keswick Mountain Festival. At the moment, we are working through logistics and equipment arrangements and will update everyone promptly via our website and social media channels if plans change.
Despite everything, our commitment to the community remains unchanged. Wherever possible, we will honour existing engagements and continue creating opportunities for accessible adventure. Where we do need to reschedule or adapt plans, we promise to communicate directly and honestly with everyone affected.
Over the past few days, we’ve already received an overwhelming number of messages, offers of support, and words of encouragement from across our community. It’s reminded us just how special the ATD family truly is. Your kindness, patience, and understanding mean more than we can say.
If you would like to help right now, the simplest and most valuable thing you can do is send Debbie your well-wishes. Positive messages, encouragement, and support genuinely go a long way during difficult times.
ATD has always been about more than events or equipment. It’s about people coming together, supporting one another, and finding strength through community and adventure. While this setback has been unexpected and incredibly difficult, we know we will navigate it together.
Thank you for standing with us. We’ll keep you updated as we know more.