Phil James
Phil James is undertaking the challenge alone to raise money for charity and awareness
A campaigner will be eating his Christmas dinner at the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) to raise awareness about loneliness and mental health over the festive period.
Armed with a full roast meal with all the trimmings, Phil James, 47, from Tunstall, Staffordshire, will be cycling Wales’ highest mountain alone.
The recovering alcoholic who recently celebrated two years of sobriety has said this time of year can be especially tough for those struggling with addiction and mental health.
All proceeds from donations will be given to the Men and Their Emotions (MATE) charity.
Phil James
His roast dinner will include all the trimmings as well as a mince pie for dessert
A survey by the Salvation Army has found an estimated 1.8 million UK adults will spend Christmas Day alone even though they do not want to.
“There are so many people who are going to feel isolated at this time of year. We often forget about people who suffer mental health and addiction, two illnesses that completely isolate you, throughout the year but more so at Christmas,” Mr James said.
In 2023, he was in a state of deep depression, had a severe addiction to alcohol and had been told there was an extensive wait for NHS therapy sessions.
After a “horrific” detox alone on his sofa for two weeks, he has since been drink-free, supported other recovering addicts and completed numerous cycling challenges to give him focus through his recovery.
Phil James
Phil James is urging people to check in on those who are suffering with mental health at Christmas
The campaigner added: “With my past with mental health issues, I’m fully aware of how lonely this time of year can feel.
“I hope my challenge serves as a reminder to check in on people, the elderly but also people with mental health who might have vanished off the radar.”
Passing on a message of hope to anyone struggling with mental health, he said: “Remember, no matter how low you feel, this isn’t forever.
“Use all the tools in the box, whether it’s counselling or professional help, it will be small steps but you’re worth it. Don’t give up on yourself.”