Black Country Flag can't fly much higher as former mayor tackles Everest
A former mayor of Dudley has taken on the world's tallest mountain to raise money for a hospice - and proudly flew the Black Country Flag at 17,600 feet.
Councillor Steve Waltho, who was Mayor of Dudley in 2015/2016, aimed to reach base camp at Everest – 17,600 feet above sea level – to raise money and awareness for the Mary Stevens Hospice in Stourbridge.
On Facebook he said: "Everest base camp update – mission accomplished. At 6.45am GMT, my sister's parter Martin Morris and I stood proudly at 17,600 feet above sea level at base camp at Everest.
"I won’t underestimate the magnitude of this achievement of two ordinary guys at ages – me at 63 and Martin at 55.
"We've both combated stomach problems and altitude issues, but good teamwork often sees you through.
"Indeed before our final push from Gorak Shep this morning I desperately needed a half hour lie down on a wall.
"We stood proudly holding the Black Country Flag then the Mary Stevens Hospice banner.
"Been a bit overwhelmed by the kind caring comments on Facebook and the generosity of people and the Givepenny Everest Climb 2018 site is still open.
"Needless to say there were a couple of emotional phone calls. Love and miss my Jayne.
"I have an ambitious but, hopefully, achievable of raising £1,000 for this fantastic charity, and would be grateful of any and all support towards achieving this goal."
So far, £595 has been raised with a further £585 pledged.
To donate, visit givepenny.com/everest-climb-2018 to make a donation.
