On top of the world

WHAT a view . . . Andrew takes a moment to enjoy the scenery on his Peru challenge

A COURAGEOUS fund-raiser is celebrating a towering success for charity — and is promising more to come next year.

Andrew Heffernan (36), a technical services assistant from Lees, has raised more than £3,500 towards a staggering £16,777 for Macmillan Cancer Support in a gruelling Peru Challenge.

He said: “It was absolutely amazing. We had a guided tour of the ancient buildings and visited a local orphanage where we donated clothing and our remaining medical supplies.

“The trek was physically demanding, covering 51 miles at altitude in only four days.

“I found the whole challenge very rewarding. Peru is an amazing place. The scenery is fantastic.

“The Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are awe inspiring — an experience I will never forget.”

“I was part of an amazing group — some, including myself, having lost family members or friends to cancer.”

After months of intensive training, he flew to Cusco, more than 12,000ft in the Andes, to acclimatise and visit historic sites before the four-day hike with a party of charity fund-raisers from across the UK on the Inca Trail Trek.

They scaled Dead Woman’s Pass at 13,700ft, descended 300ft, camped, had dinner, and bed.

They started an arduous descent from 13,400ft and then a constant hike to a camp at 9,800ft with dinner, a hot shower and the luxury of a bed.

Two days later, Andrew reached the ultimate destination Sun Gate and the first sight of Machu Picchu.

And he added: “I’m looking for another challenge next year.”

Andrew’s father, Councillor Derek Heffernan, said: “We are all very proud of Andrew. His efforts really helped make a difference.”