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Travel counsellor scales Snowdon in wheelchair for Reuben’s Retreat

Accessible travel champion and Travel Counsellor Nick Markham scaled one of the highest peaks in the UK in an adapted wheelchair for charity.

The Snowdon challenge by wheelchair has raised more than £1,000 so far, with further donations coming in.

Markham took on the challenge alongside a team of 14 walkers up the mountain for the agency’s chosen charity, Reuben’s Retreat.

They scaled the mountain in less than four hours to raise money for the charity that supports families with children who have life-limiting illnesses.

Markham’s team helped to carry him and his wheelchair for the final 100 metres to the summit.

He has been in a wheelchair since 1992 after a road traffic accident but has been determined to live life to the full.

Markham is passionate about making travel experiences accessible for everyone, no matter their physical or mental abilities.

He said: “Scaling Snowdon was both mentally and physically challenging. Not only did we have the June heatwave to contend with, but as I began the ascent I realised just how deep I was going to have to dig to make it to the top.

“All throughout the challenge I kept my mind focussed on how you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it, regardless of whether you’re walking or in a wheelchair.

“I also thought about how the money raised would benefit Reuben’s Retreat. This, alongside the support of my fellow teammates, kept me going right up to the top of the mountain.

“The challenge didn’t end there of course, and after taking some time to enjoy the breath-taking views of the rolling Welsh hills, we then had to dig deep again to get back down safely. It just proves that with a great team behind you, anything is possible.”

He added: “Working in travel means I have the opportunity to explore the world and send my customers, whether they’re able bodied or have a disability, to experience journeys that take them to all corners of the globe.

“It’s a job and a responsibility I love, and to be able to support Travel Counsellors chosen charity Reuben’s Retreat, which helps to send families with poorly children on respite breaks that enable them to spend time together when it really matters, means I can give back to people that really need support through tough times.

“A huge thanks for the support of my fellow Snowdon conquerors, Travel Counsellors and Breese Adventures, who specialise in Snowdonia charity challenges for all abilities.”

Travel Counsellors operations director Karen Morris said: “A huge well done to Nick for his amazing achievement and the support he has given to our chosen charity Reuben’s Retreat.

“Nick is a true champion of our vision to make travel experiences accessible for everyone, and is proof that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. In true Travel Counsellors style Nick is living a life without limits, and we are delighted to support him along the way.”

Donations can be made on JustGiving

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