Phil Brickell, Bolton West Labour candidate, is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest mountain – next month.

At 5,895m high, Kilimanjaro is the highest freestanding mountain in the world. On a good day, due its close proximity to the equator you can see the mountain’s summit from more than 100 miles way as it looms high over the neighbouring national park. A dormant stratovolcano it’s even been host to the world’s highest ever cricket match!

Phil will be climbing the mountain on the Lemosho route –  seven days on the mountain, camping at altitude from the first day all the way back down to the start. Climbers pass through five different climactic zones on the way to the top – starting in the bushland, then gaining altitude up through the rainforest, moorland, the alpine desert and then on to the arctic zone above 5,000m.

Phil is doing all this in aid of Bolton Hospice – which provides in-patient and at-home end-of-life care as well as support for vulnerable people. The Hospice is facing grave financial difficulties as a result of the cost-of-living crisis and it’s a charity close to Phil’s heart.

Any contribution you’re able to make – large or small – to support the Hospice would be much appreciated. You can donate here: www.justgiving.com/page/phil-brickell-kilimanjaro

And if you want to find out a bit more about the challenge ahead, take a peek here www.teamkilimanjaro.com