IT was one of the toughest challenges she has faced but Jessica Mather hopes her drive and determination to climb Mount Kilimanjaro will inspire others.

Sports and leisure technical instructor Jessica, who works at Arbury Court in Winwick, completed the gruelling challenge last month to increase awareness of mental health while raising money for Young Minds.

She said: “Summit night was described by many people as ‘the best and worst night’ of their lives, with fatigue and a temperature of -30 at an altitude of 19,341ft.

“The air was extremely thin and everyone came together as a team to get each other to the summit.

“It was the most mentally, physically and emotionally challenging experience I have undertaken and hope that this will inspire and motivate people to achieve goals they may never have thought they would be able to achieve.”

Jessica braved the severe weather conditions as she trekked along the Lemosho route through different climate zones and changes in altitude.

Jade Zelkowicz, community fundraiser at Young Minds, said: “We value every opportunity to raise awareness about the vital importance of children and young people’s emotional wellbeing and mental health.

“We could not do this without the help and support of many generous individuals, such as Jessica.”

Speaking about why she chose to raise vital cash for Young Minds, Jessica said: “This charity is relevant to many of the people I have worked with, as some feel they were not given enough support as a young person with mental illnesses.

“This charity is instrumental in ensuring that support it available through early intervention, which is crucial for young people.”

Visit justgiving.com/jessica-mather.