This crowdfunding appeal will help me attempt this once-in-a-lifetime challenge; the Explorers Grand Slam – The Last Degree. This includes climbing the seven highest peaks on the world's seven continents and reaching both North and South poles, attempting to beat the current record.

Funds from this crowdfunding appeal will go towards the significant costs of mountain guides, Sherpas, specialist equipment, transportation and basic accommodation for a team of mountaineers. In addition to support the expedition I am also looking for both corporate or private sponsorship.

Until late 2016, I had never even climbed a small mountain before. I wanted to take on a challenge so looked into climbing Everest. After some research I came across Kenton Cool, one of the world’s leading high-altitude climbers. He agreed to meet me and from there we hit it off and embarked on a three and a half year training plan and climbing various mountains in the UK and the Alps.

After conversations with Kenton on our climbs and falling in love with mountaineering, I decided to take on the Explorers Grand Slam - The Last Degree challenge in 2021. I am passionate about this once-in-a-lifetime challenge and I will also raise funds for various charities through a separate fundraising page.

Kenton believes in me and has kindly agreed to assist me on this challenge and I hope you will too. You can follow my story on social media and on my website; www.garysgrandslam.co.uk