An 11-year-old from Warminster who has faced incredible hardship in his short life, is now set to climb England’s highest peak in memory of his grandmother.

Lucas Rennie was only two years old when the thatched cottage his family lived in burned to the ground due to a chimney fire. The fire resulted in the loss of almost everything the Rennie family-owned, leaving them with only each other.

So when Lucas’s grandmother Angela (known to him as ‘Babbie’) died from Parkinson’s disease after a 12-year battle, the loss was even more devastating.

Lucas’ parents say it is these losses that have sparked the resilience and determination within Lucas that has driven him to take on his latest mountain challenge.

Wiltshire Times: Lucas and his grandmother Angela in 2012.Lucas and his grandmother Angela in 2012. (Image: Parkinson's UK)

"I want to do this in memory of my grandmother and for all those who are fighting Parkinson's. I want to show them that they are not alone, and I want to help raise money to find a cure," says Lucas.

Throughout her battle with Parkinson's, Lucas said he witnessed his grandmother's unwavering strength, and her courageous spirit has fuelled his desire to take action against Parkinson's disease.

The 11-year-old will climb to the top of Scafell Pike alongside his dad Alasdair Rennie on Saturday, December 2, and his parents could not be more proud.

"Lucas has shown such incredible strength and compassion in taking on this challenge,” said his family.

“We are deeply moved by his determination to make a difference in the fight against Parkinson's. We are grateful for the overwhelming support and encouragement from everyone who has rallied behind Lucas.”

Wiltshire Times: Lucas Rennie will take on the challenge with his dad Alasdair.Lucas Rennie will take on the challenge with his dad Alasdair. (Image: Parkinson's UK)

Parkinson's disease is a chronic and progressive movement disorder that initially causes tremor in one hand, stiffness or slowing of movement. The disease causes parts of the brain to become progressively damaged over many years.

Lucas said he hopes to raise £1,000 for Parkinson’s UK, who are a charity providing support and research for those diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and their families.

Adam Lewis, headmaster at Sutton Veny Primary School where Lucas is a student, has said:

"It is wonderful that Lucas and his father are undertaking such an incredible personal challenge to raise money for Parkinson's UK.

“This charity is very close to the family's heart and we wish Lucas and his dad the best of luck as they embark on their adventure. Lucas should be very proud of himself.”