A Cumbrian man is taking on a mammoth mountain challenge in memory of his late father later this year.

Simon Stewart's father died of cancer aged 54, and in his memory, Simon will be taking on the Everest 3 Peaks 3 Passes Trek in Nepal.

On 6 November, Simon, 53, will embark on the 19-day challenge, which will see him reaching Everest Base Camp before trekking the three high passes of Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La, all standing at over 17,000 feet.

Simon, from Brampton, will be raising funds for Eden Valley Hospice through the challenge.

"My dad died of cancer at 54, he did not need a hospice, but he had excellent care and support," said Simon.

"This year with Covid made me reflect and realise I would love to try and help raise as much as I can for Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw."

Former firefighter Simon is bracing himself for the difficult conditions he will face on his journey.

He added: "I am most looking forward to seeing if I can summit the three passes at almost 18,00ft, the amazing scenery, challenging myself at high altitude, the sub-zero conditions, being part of a small expedition team and the camaraderie this will create.

"However, I am not looking forward to the effect of the high altitude on me and if I got really bad altitude sickness and could not continue. This is an unknown and everyone reacts differently which has no reflection on fitness."

Simon will be funding the Everest 3 Peaks 3 Passes Trek himself, meaning every donation made to support his fundraising will go directly to Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw.

If you would like to sponsor Simon as he takes part in the Everest 3 Peaks 3 Passes Trek please visit his JustGiving page, or email Eden Valley Hospice at fundraising@edenvalleyhospice.org.