A 10-year-old boy from Cumbria is undertaking a remarkable challenge to climb the highest peaks in 32 European countries to raise funds for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), a charity focused on preventing young sudden cardiac deaths. Frankie McMillan, who resides in Holmrook with his parents Basia and Andy, began his mountaineering journey at the age of three and has already scaled over a thousand mountains worldwide.

Frankie made his first ascent climbing Cat Bells, a 451-meter fell in the Lake District, when he was just three years old. At seven, he climbed Mount Olympus in Greece, standing at 2,917 meters, and is believed to be the youngest Briton to reach the summit. His passion for climbing reportedly started with his mother’s frequent mountain hikes, inspiring him to take on progressively more challenging peaks.

Basia McMillan recalled that by age four Frankie had already climbed 50 mountains, including Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak. Since then, he and his family have continued exploring mountains across various countries, accumulating thousands of ascents.

Frankie's fundraising efforts were motivated by his close friend Xander Morris, 11, who was diagnosed with Long QT syndrome, a rare heart condition that can cause sudden cardiac arrest. In response, Frankie chose to support CRY through his climbing expeditions.

So far, Frankie and his mother have completed 27 of their planned 32 climbs as part of a six-week tour during school holidays. Their journey has taken them to notable summits including Gran Paradiso in the Italian Alps and Zugspitze in Germany.

To date, their fundraising has raised approximately £28,000. In recognition of his achievements and charitable efforts, Frankie is scheduled to receive a medal at the British Citizen Youth Awards in London.