THREE friends who took on one of the world’s highest mountains have raised £7,000 for a Swindon charity which supports people with mental health, drug and alcohol problems.

Electrician Lee Breakspeare, property developer Haydn Beer, and chartered accountant Paul King scaled the 5,895m peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa, in support of Twigs.

The community garden group, based in Manor Gardens, helps participants to regain confidence, self-esteem and to learn new skills. Impressed by the work of the group, the men took on the feat last month and spent seven long, hard days scaling the gruelling heights, in Tanzania.

Hadyn, a partner with BLB Kilminster Beer construction, said the feeling of jubilation at the top made all the hard work worthwhile.

“We were all elated at having made the summit,” he said.

“We were supported by an amazing team of local guides and porters who took the most wonderful care of us and got the whole team to the top. They kept our spirits up when we were tired and were a fantastic source of humour and education about the people, the country of Tanzania and the mountain.

“Elements of the trek were gruelling, each of the team enjoyed a sense of achievement, and we are thrilled to have raised money for Twigs, such a tremendous and worthwhile charity.”

When the trio reached the top, they posed for photos with a tablecloth made at Twigs bearing the organisation’s name in recognition of those they were helping back home.

The expedition was the fifth Kilimanjaro fundraiser in aid of Twigs, with the total number of people that have climbed the mountain for the charity rising to 16.

Twigs will be hosting a spring open day at their base, between 11am and 4pm on Sunday, April 12.

Visitors will be able to buy plants, see Twigs’ displays and enjoy a range of refreshments. There will also be live music performances during the event.

Anyone who would like to sponsor the trek can visit www.virginmoneygiving.com and search Twigs. To find out more about the charity, call 01793 523294 or email twigs.reception@gmail.com.