Dylan Hughes, a father of two from Bangor, has been chosen by Sony Pictures to represent the UK in the launch trailer for the new blockbuster Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The film studio made the surprise approach after Dylan's charitable climbing efforts caught the attention of movie executives. Since then, Dylan has been invited to attend press launches with the film's stars and was invited to the UK premiere in London.
A Surprise From Sony Pictures
Dylan said: “It’s hard to think that Sony Pictures picked me to represent the UK, and to be one of a few people from around the whole world to be involved in the movie launch. Never in a million years when I started my fundraising efforts could I ever imagine any of this happening.”
He added: “I’m hoping that being involved in this incredible experience helps to boost my fundraising efforts and that I can raise as much money as possible for this year’s charity, Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue, and more importantly help them to save lives!”
4,000 Miles and Nearly 450 Summits
Over the past two and a half years, Dylan has walked more than 4,000 miles and completed nearly 450 summits of Yr Wyddfa, Wales' highest peak. His frequent treks include traversing the dangerous knife-edge ridge of Crib Goch several times each week.
Because he spends up to three days on the mountain every week, the fundraiser regularly sees volunteer rescue crews in action. “Being out in the mountains, I regularly see or hear about mountain rescue teams being tasked to incidents,” said Dylan. “It is incredible to think that those teams are made up entirely of volunteers giving up their own time and often having to respond in tricky conditions to help others in their hour of need.”
Raising Funds for Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue
Dylan's social media followers picked Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue as this year’s charity. He said: “I know this lifesaving charity relies entirely on donations, so being able to help just a little towards their annual running costs in an absolute privilege.”
Over the past 30 months, Dylan has raised more than £15,000 for good causes, including Hope House Children’s Hospice and Breast Cancer Now. Donations to support the Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue team can be made on Dylan's JustGiving page, and his fundraising progress can be followed on Facebook and Instagram.
