A courageous Jet2.com pilot has successfully conquered Everest and raised a staggering £10,600 for Cancer Research UK.

Paul James, who is based at Blackpool Airport, began his momentous journey in April and successfully reached the summit at 7.35am on Friday, May 22.

"The mission to the top of Everest was long and treacherous but worth all the effort," said Paul. "Fundraising for the wonderful charity which helped my father and friend through their cancer treatments means the world to me. And to be able to do this whilst challenging myself in such a way makes it a doubly rewarding experience."

Paul, who has 25 years of climbing experience after working as a mountain guide, conquered the 8,850 metre summit with the intention of raising £8,850, but exceeded his total by nearly £2,000.

"The highlight of the trip was getting back to an altitude where you can actually breathe thick air! Nothing can prepare you for the extremities of the conditions up on the mountain, which has itself claimed more than 200 lives.

"After the descent we had to take a two day drive to Kathmandu; there was a restaurant which allowed anyone who had summited [sic] Everest to eat free for life, so steak and chips went down extremely well!"

Philip Meeson of Jet2.com said: "I am extremely proud of Paul and very happy to see him literally flying the Jet2.com flag at the top of this amazing mountain. The fact that Paul has managed to raise more than £10,600 is an incredible achievement and is credit to how much effort he has put in to promoting the expedition and encouraging people to sponsor him."

Jet2.com provides great value flights from its six UK bases: Belfast, Blackpool, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Manchester and Newcastle. Visit www.jet2.com for details.

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