A PENSIONER is taking on a challenge of a lifetime to mark his 70th birthday and to raise money for a children's hospice charity.

Alwyn Griffiths, of Old Colwyn, will be joined by his son Ifan when he takes on an eight day climb up the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania later this month.

Setting off on July 23, the daring duo will be joined by Sherpa mountain guides to tackle the notorious Lemosho route to the summit of 5,895m (19,341ft).

Alwyn, who has wanted to climb Kilimanjaro for a number of years said: “I’m looking forward to the climb.

“I find in life that you have to be positive to achieve your goals and not let external influences or doubt affect you.”

Before retirement, Alwyn had worked as a Structural Engineer and visited many countries around the world.

He said: “I have always enjoyed walking in the mountains and kept myself fit.

“I think the lack of oxygen at altitude will be the biggest test on Kilimanjaro – you can’t really prepare for it as it effects everybody differently.

“Since October last year I have been walking the Carneddau more than usual and ramping this up in last couple of months.”

Ifan lives and works in Vancouver, Canada and will be flying in to join his dad for the epic adventure.

“Ifan works in the Hospitality sector and has all the mountains around Whistler to practice in and is in the gym regularly,” Alwyn said.

“I have been donating bits to the Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith shops for many years now and thought to make the challenge even more rewarding we could raise some money for them.

“What better cause than helping local children and their families?

“We’re really looking forward to it and hope the community can get behind us by sparing whatever they can for this fantastic charity.”

Readers can sponsor Alwyn by clicking here. 

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Andy Everley, Tŷ Gobaith fundraiser, said: “Supporting Alwyn and Ifan on their courageous journey up Mount Kilimanjaro has been a great source of inspiration.

“It is through the determination and bravery of individuals like Alwyn and Ifan that we are able to provide support to the families who rely on our services.

“Alwyn's unwavering spirit proves that age is merely a number, we eagerly await hearing about their remarkable experiences upon their return."