Gill & Robinson’s Ian Robinson, a member of the Timber Trades’ Benevolent Society (TTBS) board of management, enjoys an active life but is facing his biggest challenge yet this month with an expedition to climb Mt Kilimanjaro.
At 19,340ft (5,898m) it is the highest free-standing mountain in the world and the highest mountain in Africa. By climbing it, Mr Robinson hopes to raise funds for the TTBS and for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.
“Over the years I have raised money for the TTBS from various activities like several Great North Runs, the Great North Swim, the Great North Bike Ride, Hadrian’s Wall and the Coast to Coast but this is my biggest challenge yet,” he said.
“I have been training hard, including three consecutive days fell walking in the Lake District in December where I covered more than 21 miles and seven peaks in sub-zero conditions. I’ve even slept in the garage for a few nights to test out my sleeping bag as it can get to -20ºC as you get near to the summit!”
The summit day will begin at midnight with a seven-hour climb of 4,240ft (1,295m) followed by a descent of 9,170ft (2,795m) which takes a further three to five hours and I hope there’s a beer ready when I get to the campsite.
“I would be really grateful for all donations, however small, and people can contact me on ian@gillandrobinson.co.uk.”
