A SOLICITOR who nearly died while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro has smashed his fundraising target and collected more than £25,000 for charity.

Chris Kane, a partner in the corporate dispute resolution team at Withy King Solicitors, joined a 41-strong team of rugby players and enthusiasts in an attempt to reach the 5,895m summit of Kilimanjaro, the world’s highest free-standing mountain.

The 49-year-old was on the final journey to the top when he collapsed from a combination of altitude sickness and acute dehydration.

A 20-man team strapped him to a stretcher and ran the 22-miles to the foot of the mountain, from where he was rushed to the nearest hospital.

Despite not making it to the summit, Mr Kane has since raised £25,000 for Help for Heroes, the charity which supports British service personnel injured while on duty.

On the mountaineering team’s return home, Mr Kane and the Marsh Farm Hotel, in Wootton Bassett, hosted a rugby dinner to celebrate their achievements and raise additional funds for Help for Heroes and several other charities.

The dinner, which featured a raffle and charity auction, was compered by ex-Wales B rugby star and current BBC commentator Phil Steele.

It also featured “live” interviews with England World Cup winner Mark Regan, Bath Prop David Barnes and current England player Matt Banahan.

Collectively, the 41-strong team raised £182,300 for charities, including £108,250 for Help for Heroes.

Chris’s dinner alone raised over £8,000.

“The support we have received has been absolutely phenomenal and we are so grateful for it,” said Chris.

“I feel privileged to have this opportunity to publically acknowledge the tremendous courage and commitment shown by our injured servicemen and women.

“Help for Heroes is a fantastic charity which makes a very real difference to the lives of some extraordinary people.

“I want to say a huge thank you to all of the firms in the area that have supported me, especially considering the unexpected outcome. ”