Helvellyn To Stand In For Monte Cassino

An army re-enactment group will be commemorating the epic 1944 battle for Monte Cassino this summer with Helvellyn standing in for the Italian fortress.

Gurka riflemen, who captured a position known as Hangman's Hill will be honoured when two members of the India Eagles - the 4th Indian Division's re-enactment group - carry two wooden period ammunition boxes each to the 950-metre summit of the Lake District peak.

Helvellyn by Andy Wallace - OM album

The ten soldiers will be wearing WWII uniforms on their ascent of the mountain and the ammo boxes will be packed with survival equipment like two-way radios, first aid equipment, emergency rations, thermal blankets and waterproofs.

The tribute isn't just symbolic, the group will also be raising funds for the under-supported Gurkha Welfare Trust which takes care of Gurkha veterans and their families in Nepal.

"We decided to mark the momentous battle, when Hangman's Hill was held for 16 days by just a few men, and support the Gurkhas into the bargain," explained one of the organisers Steve Driver.

"We have been shocked by how little support the Gurkha Welfare Trust gets, even though the force has served in almost every major conflict of the 20th century and has 13 Victoria Crosses to its credit," he continued before thanking the Lake District National Park Authority for its 'sterling help' in planning the event.

The Gurkha ascent of Helvellyn is due to take place on 21 July starting from Glenridding at noon, so don't be too surprised if you're passed by a team of World War 2 squaddies wrestling ammo boxes up the mountain...

More details and donation information at www.4thindians.co.uk.