Fife man reaches summit of Everest

James Grieve made it to the top of the world’s highest and most dangerous peak last month.

It came just 12 months after he was caught up in the devasting earthquake which struck Nepal last May.

Hundreds of people were killed, including those on Everest. James was stationed at base camp when the quake struck causing a huge avalanche, but thankfully he escaped without injury. 
But he vowed to return to Nepal and conquer Everest after making a promise as a child to reach the top.

“It’s still kind of surreal to think about,” he said. “It really doesn’t feel like I’ve actually been there and done it - I just don’t think it has sunk in yet.”

it wasn’t without it’s struggles of course; trying to sleep on the side of a mountain, dehydration - and needing the loo at 8000ft.

But James – an engineer who works off-shore and lives with his partner Shirley, and two-year-old son, also James – said it was all definitely worth it.

“I do all my climbing in memory of my Dad, so I took a picture of him with me to the top.

“I’ve also managed to raise £1000 for Children 1st and around £600 for Help4Heroes, so that’s great knowing that money will make a difference.

“I just wanted to give something back to these charities which do amazing work.”