A HAMPSHIRE grandfather is preparing to climb a mountain to raise money for charity.

Rodney Mansbridge, who lives in Shootash, near Romsey, will attempt to ascend Scafell Pike in the Lake District on his 80th birthday on Thursday, June 6.

He is completing the challenge to raise money for two charities, the University of Southampton Gift of Sight Appeal and Help for Heroes, with half of the money raised being given to each.

Hampshire Chronicle: Rodney MansbridgeRodney Mansbridge (Image: Rodney Mansbridge)

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Rodney, who was born on D-Day in 1944, said that he was originally planning to celebrate his birthday by visiting the British Memorial in France, before instead deciding to take on Scafell Pike for charity.

He said: “I’ve always loved the Lake District after my first visit in 1962, with a couple of mates, in a Ford 7cwt; we pitched our tent and ran up and down Scafell in under three hours. I’ve been back many times, with my wife after our marriage in 1971, and again with our children.

“I am almost blind in one eye and have been all of my life, hence one of my chosen charities, The University of Southampton’s Gift of Sight Appeal.”

Rodney has been preparing for the challenge by visiting the Lake District and climbing other mountains there, including the Catsbells.

At the time of writing, the 79-year-old has managed to raise £1,101, with a goal of raising £3,209 in total – one pound for every foot of Scafell Pike.

He wanted to thank those who have donated already, saying: “It’s brilliant. Thank you very much.

Hampshire Chronicle: A view down to Wasdale Head from Scafell PikeA view down to Wasdale Head from Scafell Pike (Image: PA)

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“I had a donation from a man I met while walking the Catbells yesterday. We were talking about it and why I am doing this, and then when I finished the walk I looked and saw he had donated online – I think he must have remembered my name or something!

“And when I came down to the Lake District in March or April to do a look around and see if I could do it, I met someone else who I chatted to about the challenge. He gave me a fiver for the fundraiser then and there.

“I am amazed at people’s generosity.”

To donate to Rodney’s fundraising challenge, visit givewheel.com/fundraising/3476/ascending-scafell-pike-at-80/#donationformactual.