InYourArea Community

Dover Rotarian scales Ben Nevis without leaving his garden

After climbing the equivalent of 1,345 metres, the five-month challenge has raised more than £4,000 for good causes

InYourArea Community

By InYourArea Community

Submitted by Michael Prebble

On a warm and sunny Saturday, Rotarian Stuart McVey completed his epic challenge to climb the height of Ben Nevis in his back garden.

On September 5, Stuart reached the summit of the highest mountain in the British Isles without leaving the village of Kingsdown, near Deal, Kent.

During lockdown he realised that, as a vulnerable adult, he was going to be confined to his house and garden.

Stuart started climbing in early April and initially had no thought of raising money.

Coming down was more challenging than going up

But encouraged by his Rotary club, family and friends, he started fundraising and has so far collected more than £4,000.

The money will go to two local charities – the Dover Foodbank and the Citizens’ Advice Bureau – chosen as they are vital to our local communities at this difficult time.

To reach the 1,345 metre height of Ben Nevis, Stuart needed to complete 225 climbs of his terraced garden.

This meant that there were 225 descents and, because of his disability, coming down was more difficult for him than going up.

At the end of his challenge Stuart was in good spirits, having improved his fitness and ability to walk as well as raising funds.

While he was climbing he grew a beard but will now shave it off.

Elspeth has supported Stuart all the way

After his final ascent, Stuart was presented with a medal by President of the Rotary Club of South Foreland Pauline Goldsack.

This was followed by a celebration with his supporters, to mark his tremendous achievement over the past five months.

Stuart would like to thank all those generous people who have supported him.

To make a donation visit here.

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