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Porthcawl RNLI volunteer completes ascent to Everest Base Camp

Lifeboats News Release

Porthcawl RNLI volunteer Amy Bridge and her husband, Bleddyn recently returned to Porthcawl after an epic adventure to Everest Base Camp.

Amy and Bleddyn at Everest base camp with RNLI flag

Porthcawl RNLI

Amy and Bleddyn at Everest base camp with RNLI flag

Amy said, ‘this was the toughest but best adventure. We totally fell in love with the Himalayas along the way.

‘As well as Everest Base Camp (5,364m), we also successfully ascended Gokyo Ri (5,360m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Kala Pattar (5,545m). I’m feeling so chuffed, especially since we had a lot of snow along the way and -17°C temperatures!

'Our challenge began with a hair-raising domestic flight from Kathmandhu to Lukla airport, which is statistically the world’s highest, steepest and most dangerous airport. Along the way we travelled over suspension bridges spanning chasms of thin air, through hidden Buddhist monasteries and into the heart of the warm, rugged Sherpa culture.'

With last-minute nerves kicking in before the couple left, they decided a fundraiser for Porthcawl RNLI would help give them some extra motivation.

Amy joined Porthcawl RNLI in September 2022 and is currently nearing completion of her shore crew training. Since returning from Everest, Bleddyn is now following suit in joining to become a volunteer tractor driver.

To donate to their fundraiser: https://www.justgiving.com/page/porthcawl-rnli-amy-and-bleddyn

Amy Bridge / Porthcawl RNLI

Bleddyn, Cho La climb

Amy Bridge / Porthcawl RNLI

Amy and Bleddyn at Top of Cho La Pass

Amy Bridge / Porthcawl RNLI

Gokyo Lakes

Amy Bridge / Porthcawl RNLI

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.

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