THREE intrepid explorers took on Ben Nevis to help raise funds for Alzheimer’s UK.

Laura Holme, of Ryde, decided to take on the challenge, and was joined by her nephew Nathan Proud and best friend Emma Ford.

Laura decided on the challenge after losing her grandmother (Nathan’s great-grandmother) Elsie Whittington, to dementia at the beginning of the year.

After seeing an advert for a Night Ben Nevis Walk, Laura jumped at the chance to climb the UK’s highest mountain, but unfortunately due to Covid restrictions the official walk was postponed.

However, calling themselves Elsie's Maltesers (relating to Elsie's native country), the trio was undeterred and continued with their plan to reach the peak.

After travelling from the Island, they were met with perfect weather conditions, and surprised themselves in completing the journey up and down the mountain in just under 5hrs 30mins.

Laura said: “We weren’t quite expecting all the different terrains underfoot, but we didn’t give up and got the job done. The views from the top were incredible and it was quite emotional.”

They took a moment while on the summit to remember their loved one by leaving a painted stone as tribute.

As an added bonus, ITV’s This Morning was broadcasting live from the top and the trio even made it on TV.

They raised just under £2,000, and have now set their sights on Snowdonia.