Competitive friends take on Race Across Pendle for Pendleside Hospice
What starts as a shared love of competition is about to become a test of endurance, teamwork and determination for two Burnley friends – all in aid of a cause that means far more than crossing the finish line.
Jo Baldwin and Jo Driver are preparing to take on Race Across Pendle, a two-day fundraising challenge organised by Pendleside Hospice, on July 3rd and 4th. Inspired by the hit TV show Race Across the World, the event will see teams navigate their way across the Pendle area using only maps, strategy and a limited budget.
For the pair, however, the journey is about much more than the challenge itself.
“I’ve always loved the idea of the TV show – it just looks like such an adventure,” said Jo Driver. “So when I heard about this, it felt like something I couldn’t miss. And doing it with Jo makes it even better, because we’re both so competitive!”
Along the route, teams will face a series of tasks designed to test not only their endurance, but their problem-solving skills and ability to work together under pressure. With no smartphones or shortcuts, success will depend on teamwork, quick thinking and resilience.
Yet behind the excitement lies a deeply personal motivation.
“Pendleside means so much to so many people locally,” Jo Driver added. “We both know families who’ve been supported by them, and the care they provide is just incredible. It’s not just about patients – it’s about supporting loved ones through some of the hardest moments in their lives.”
Organised by the hospice’s fundraising team, Race Across Pendle aims to push participants out of their comfort zones while raising awareness – and vital funds – for hospice care across the region.
For Jo Baldwin, the combination of friendship and purpose is what makes the experience so special.
“Of course we want to do well – there’s definitely a bit of rivalry there,” she said. “But ultimately, it’s about raising as much as we can. Every step we take will help Pendleside continue the work they do for local families, and that’s what really matters.”
That work comes at a significant cost. The hospice needs around £6.4m. each year to run, with only around 20% of its funding coming from statutory sources.
To support Jo and Jo, visit: www.justgiving.com/page/jojo26