Group raise money in memory of beloved friend and daughter

Lauren McFarland, 30, died following a tragic car accident whilst on her way to work in January.

In her memory, Lauren’s family and friends came together to undertake a series of challenges at the Keswick Mountain Festival to raise money for Keswick Mountain Rescue Team.

Lauren McFarland, 30 (Image: Supplied)

Lauren’s father, Dave, competed in the triathlon, winning his category of over 60s male before then completing a 5km run in the afternoon whilst Lauren’s mum, Paula, ran her first ever 5km run.

Other members of the group completed the 5km run whilst Lauren’s friend, Andy, took part in the 25km race.

Lauren’s close friend, Francesca Sykes, paid tribute to Lauren and the ‘outstanding’ effort of her friends and family.

Lauren's dad on top of the podium (Image: Supplied)

“Lauren loved the lakes – it was where she belonged really so to take on these challenges there just felt right,” said Frankie.

“She was the best friend you could ever have and she just the best person.

“The way her family has come together in such a hard time is such an admirable thing in a time where you know we could have gone quite inverted and gone into a dark place... we all use Lauren's sense of adventure and fun to do these amazing things in her name.”

Throughout her life, Lauren loved the outdoors and only last year travelled to Everest base camp, raising money for the child bereavement charity ‘Held in our Hearts’.

Team Lauren at the Mountain Festival (Image: Supplied)Lauren’s friend, Ross Stott, said he was ‘so proud’ of all the group’s effort at the mountain festival.

“The most important thing for me is that we pay tribute and do everything we can to keep her memory alive,” said Ross.

“It's absolutely gut wrenching to think of what happened and whenever anybody thinks about it, it just tears you apart, but I think we should be proud to say that everybody is pulling together.

“We're just trying to do something really good in her name and that’s what she would have wanted.”

The challenges for Lauren’s friends continue throughout the summer with her dad undertaking another triathlon in Spain and Frankie is taking on a major swim and a 'tough mudder'.

Anybody wishing to donate to their fundraiser can do so online.