A student at the University of Sheffield, Joel Kiernan, has completed the ‘Everest in England’ challenge in order to raise funds for Sheffield Hospitals Charity.

The challenge, which involves climbing various tors and peaks across the country to the height of 29,000 feet – the same altitude as Mount Everest – over a 12 day period, is not for the feint hearted. But none of that fazed Joel, 22, who was determined to do his bit for Sheffield Hospitals Charity and ensure that his efforts make a real difference to vital services right here in Sheffield.

Having been involved in a serious accident in February this year, Joel’s life was left in the hands of surgeons at the Northern General Hospital. Not only did they save his life, but this gave Joel a real motivation to give something back.

Joel, who started the challenge at the foot of Brea Hill in Cornwall, and finished at the peak of Scafell Pike, said: “Following my accident, the gratitude I feel for the staff that treated me is immeasurable and I will forever feel in their debt.

“I know that Sheffield Hospitals Charity does incredible work to support our NHS here in Sheffield and so I wanted to do my bit to repay that debt – and this seemed like a really fantastic way to do that.

“I’ll be honest and say that it was a real challenge, but knowing the reason that I was taking part gave me all of the motivation that I needed. I am so grateful for all the support people have shown me and I’d greatly appreciate any further kind donations.”

Joel is raising funds on his justgiving and he has already raised over £3,000. If you want to support Joel, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/joel-kiernan-everestengland