Charity supporter treks 103 miles to raise £575 for South Essex Wildlife Hospital

Paul Thwaites, a member of the Wickford Wombles, completed the "most challenging adventure" of his life by trekking 103 miles and climbing over 35,000ft to Everest Base Camp, to raise money for South Essex Wildlife Hospital. The charity, based in Orsett, thanked Paul for his efforts, describing the trek as "seriously taxing". He described the trek as "the most challenging adventure I have ever attempted in my life", but said he was "absolutely gutted" to be beaten by Acute Mountain Sickness only two days before reaching the 18,500ft Base Camp.

Despite this setback, Mr Thwaites said the trip was still a success with "amazing memories". A spokesman for the South Essex Wildlife Hospital said: "Thank you so much Paul. "This is a seriously taxing trek and we are so grateful that you chose to do it in aid of us.



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