From Wolverhampton to Kathmandu as friends begin Everest charity trek
A team of four brave friends from Wolverhampton have embarked on an epic trek to Everest Base Camp.
The friends arrived safely in Kathmandu earlier this week for the start of their 11-day journey.
Promise Dreams founder Suresh Bawa, his son Arran, Neil Taylor, and Tom Hatton are on a mission to raise thousands for charity.
The Black Country and Staffordshire boys will battle their way to the Everest Base Camp in efforts to raise money for Wolverhampton-based Promise Dreams and Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
Mr Taylor, landlord of The Fox at Shipley, confirmed the group, backed by Wolves legend and Promise Dreams patron Steve Bull, had arrived safe and sound in Nepal on Monday afternoon.
From Kathmandu, the group took an eight-seater plane on to Lukla airport at Everest Base Camp.
Speaking to the Express & Star from Lukla, Suresh said: “The flight into the Lukla, the most dangerous airport in the world, was an experience and a half and landing on a runway that was like a postage stamp.
“The views are unbelievable, and the Nepalese people are so kind. Yaks are carrying our luggage on the route, there are a lot of nationalities and it is quite busy on routes.
“We are having a great experience. We are at 2,800 metres now.”
The group originally set out to raise £30,000 for the chosen causes, but have since amassed more than £32,000.
It’s a challenge that comes as part of Arran and Tom’s 21st birthday celebrations.
Suresh, from Wolverhampton, had previously told the Express & Star he thought the group faced a challenge in the altitude and walking 10 hours a day.
The mammoth task comes after months of training, taking almost monthly hikes up Snowdon and embarking on walks up The Wrekin.
People can donate to the cause at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fourmenandamountain1.
