Postcards from the Peaks hopes to ‘spark meaningful connections and conversations’ – ATV Today

Stu Skinner is embarking on a heartfelt and ambitious challenge to bring people together through the simple yet meaningful act of sending postcards…

But it’s not quite as easy as it sounds…  Carrying a 26kg cast iron Royal Mail Post Box – and donning his trademark flip flops – Stu will climb to the highest point in all 15 of the UK’s National Parks, symbolising connection, community, and hope as he undertakes this mammoth task.

He’s inviting everyone, locally and nationally, to join him on the adventure – showing how sometimes it takes something crazy and magical to draw people back into connection and away from isolation.  To participate in Postcards from the Peak people can either join Stu for one of the walks, or take part in the sending of digital postcards through the website.

Stu Skinner, Founder of the Head Outside Awards and Postcards from the Peak said: “I never planned on waking up with a 26kg cast iron Royal Mail postbox. It was an impulsive, absurd, and questionable charity auction purchase. But in a moment of loneliness, looming eviction, and a lot of uncertainty, it felt like exactly the catalyst I needed. Could this postbox change my life by sparking meaningful connections and conversations?”

Each of the 15 walks is open to everyone, whether you are climbing your first peak or your fiftieth. On each hike, Stu will carry the postbox to the highest point in the park, offering participants a symbolic and powerful moment of connection. “Loneliness can feel like climbing a mountain alone, but connection makes the journey easier,” Stu explained.

The hikes will range in challenge and accessibility, with some peaks as low as 40 metres, and each walk is free to join. Clear information on the level of difficulty and accessibility will be provided, with donations welcome to help fund the initiative. The walks will be an opportunity to explore the beauty of the UK’s landscapes, meet new people, and share postcards to brighten someone’s day.

“I’ll be carrying a postbox in flip flops, so don’t worry about pace!” Stu Skinner reassures participants. “Nobody will be left behind – if anything, you might end up waiting for me at the summit!”

For those unable to join in person, the campaign’s online form allows people to send postcards and be part of the connection from anywhere. To learn more about Postcards from the Peaks, find details on how to join a walk, donate or participate in the postcard campaign, visit www.postcardsfrompeaks.com.