Pontypool OAP treks to Everest base camp for charity (From South Wales Argus)

Pontypool OAP treks to Everest base camp for charity

4:50pm Friday 1st February 2013 in News

A PONTYPOOL pensioner took on the gruelling challenge of trekking to Everest Base Camp to help raise money for charity.

Pete Fry, 66, decided to do the trek for the charity Wales Air Ambulance.

He completed the trek in a group of five, consisting of him and his son, Christopher, his friend, Alex, from Cardiff, a woman from North Wales and a man from the USA.

The trek took 14 days, from November 13 to December 3, including a few days before and after in Kathmandu, with the total ascent for the group being around 32,500ft.

Thanks to the support of Mr Fry’s friends, family and local businesses who sponsored him, he has raised £1,870.27.

He said: “It was tough but it was a great experience for a great cause.

“This is the first time I’ve done anything as adventurous as this for charity but I’d encourage everyone to get out and do something.”

Wales Air Ambulance fundraising manager Mark Stevens said: “On behalf of everyone at Wales Air Ambulance I’d like to thank Pete for his outstanding fundraising efforts.”