A WALKHAMPTON man beat sub-zero temperatures and altitude sickness to achieve his millennium ambition recently when he reached the summit of Kala Pattar in the Himalayas.

Chris Morley trekked to 18,250 feet above sea level to raise money for the RNLI, passing Everest base camp on the way.

'The ascent was the most difficult thing I have ever asked my body to do,' said Chris.

'Five paces forward and upward required a minute's rest to take in enough oxygen to do the next five.

'As far as I am concerned the trip was a great success but was far more demanding than I had originally anticipated.'

On the third day of the trek he was diagnosed with mild altitude sickness, but managed to keep going. His room-mate on the trip had to be airlifted away from the mountains with the same condition.

Chris said his experience made him realise the effort that goes into mountaineering expeditions — but the splendour of the Himalayas made the effort worthwhile.

'Of course every step was helped by the tremendous support of my sponsors to whom I am most grateful — I thank them enormously,' said Chris.

'I am hopeful I will have raised in excess of £1,000 for the RNLI,.'

Anyone who would like to offer a donation before Chris closes his sponsorship forms can contact him on 01822 855145.