Rise and shine for mental health: Leitrim town holds darkness into light climb

This Saturday morning (May 17th), Leitrim Village locals will host a darkness into light climb of Sheemore Hill in support of North West STOP, a local mental health charity.

 The annual  event, titled “Rise Up for North West STOP,” invites participants to ascend the 179-metre hill in the early hours, reaching the summit in time to witness the sunrise from beneath the iconic cross.

There is no registration fee for the event; participants are encouraged to donate what they can. 

Due to limited parking at the base of Sheemore Hill, a shuttle bus will depart from St. Joseph’s Hall in Leitrim Village from 4:00 AM, transporting climbers to the starting point. 

The climb serves as a symbolic act of solidarity with those affected by mental health challenges and suicide, especially poignant given the absence of a Darkness into Light walk in Carrick-on-Shannon this year.

 North West STOP provides free, confidential counselling services across the region and relies entirely on public donations to fund its work.

After the climb, attendees are invited to The Leitrim Inn for hot beverages and breakfast treats.