Ben Shills, who lives in Burnham and works in Cheddar, took on the gruelling Three Peaks Challenge to raise money for local mental health support charity In Charley’s memory.
It consisted of climbing Ben Nevis, Scarfell Pike and Snowdon in less than 24 hours.
Speaking to Burnham-On-Sea.com, he said: “It was quite possibly the hardest thing I have ever done!”
“Mentally draining and physically demanding, we were hit with all weather conditions which included non-stop torrential rain and 50+mph winds whilst climbing snowdon. On Ben Nevis we encountered snow at the top!”
He added: “Having current personal trainer clients who suffer with their mental health, and suffering with my own, I want to increase awareness of charities such as ICM who do fantastic work with young adults.”
“I believe strongly in tackling ill mental health. I think it’s only recently become more talked about in the media but has been plaguing some people for the majority of their lives.”
He told us earlier this year: “I’ve fought with my own personal battles for many years but only recently felt more comfortable about talking about it and opening up. I’ve used many different techniques – some that worked, others that didn’t – but felt I could always turn to exercise to help ‘lift’ my mood.”
“This was one of the reasons I got into personal training, as well as improving people’s physical health. I wanted to start to tackle their psychological health too.”
He adds: “ICM are amazing. They provide such an amazing service and don’t get half the recognition they deserve. To encourage younger people to talk about their mental health and engage with others I think they are life skills they can carry forward into adult life.”
To donate towards his fundraising, click here.
