Everest climb for Pocklington father and son team

Mick and Peter Fox treked to Everest base camp which raised almost £5,000 for charity.

Mount Everest is the tallest peak on the planet (Image: Hang Ross) The Pocklington pair walked more than 71 miles and scaled 17,726ft (5,403m) feet of mountain ascent in a nine day hike which raised funds for SmileKenya, a charity established in 2024 by Mick and his York co-trustees, Matthew and Rebecca Band.

The duo setting off from York (Image: Supplied) Former York bank manager Mick, 59, said: “We always knew the adventure would be challenging but it has been rewarding in so many ways. 

"Flying into Lukla, the most dangerous airport in the world, set the tone.

"Braving the aftermath of the monsoon and landslides added to the sense of adventure. 

"But the camaraderie amongst our 13 strong party, the welcome of the local people and the sheer majesty of the mountains will stay with us forever.”

The group, from a number of nations, was led by  Bob Bhania and Sirdar Nima Kanchha Sherpa who recently accompanied Brit Neil Laughton on the highest bike ride in the world.

The group on Everest (Image: Supplied) Mick’s son, entrepreneur Peter , 26, runs game development business, Maximalist. He is also a mentor for young people excluded from school.

He said: “This has been an incredible experience with my dad. I deeply admire his dedication to helping those in need in Kenya and I’m proud to have played a part in raising funds for their charity. Together, we’ve created memories that will last a lifetime while supporting a cause close to our hearts.”

Mick on the trail (Image: Supplied) The money raised has already helped kickstart the work of SmileKenya which is transforming agriculture in Kinango, Kenya by funding essential resources like water infrastructure, poultry and seeds, and providing training and support for the villagers. 

Mick said: “Funds from our trek have provided chickens and chicken coops as well as vital solar panels for the community.  With more funds we plan to provide water storage from the village bore hole and to connect other farmers.”

Mick and Peter Fox treked to Everest base camp which raised almost £5,000 for charity (Image: Supplied) Already Mick and Peter are planning their next fundraising adventure.  In 2025, again with a team led by Bob Bhania, they intend to tackle Africa’s highest peak – Kilimanjaro (5,895m or 19,340 ft).

Mount Everest is 8,849 metres high, and rises about 250 metres above the next tallest peak in the Himalayas.

For more information about the charity and the trek or to make a donation, visit www.smilekenya.org.uk