Tony climbs Ben Nevis for Chestnut Appeal

Tony Tamblin, Post Room Operative at Derriford Hospital, has successfully completed the challenge of climbing the UK’s highest mountain; Ben Nevis, in aid of the Chestnut Appeal and has raised an amazing £669.00.

Tony has always loved a challenge and decided to leave Devon for the very first time in his 40 years, whilst raising funds for a charity very close to his heart.

In November 2014, Tony signed up for the trek and embarked on his training on Dartmoor, which for months would involve catching a bus out to the Yelverton roundabout and walking around Burrator come rain or shine. Tony would also walk home from work whenever possible, even though he had already spent the day walking around Derriford Hospital’s many corridors delivering the post.

On Friday 19th June, Tony took a plane from Exeter to Glasgow to undertake the climbing of Ben Nevis the following day. In total, 20 people took part in the climb, which took him four hours to complete.

Tony said: “This experience was utterly breath taking and I was amazed that having never been out of the region before, how many different shades of green there are and how beautiful our country really is. 

“During the climb, I got to experience all the seasons in one day, from sun, to rain, hail, fog and even snow and I also made a few good friends along the way. I hope that by talking about my experience that it might inspire others to do the same and raise money for a great cause.

“I would like to thank everyone that sponsored me for this great challenge, I really am extremely grateful.”

Lesley-Ann Simpson, Charity Director for the Chestnut Appeal, said: “I would like to thank Tony for taking on this fundraising challenge! We all know how hard he has worked and are very proud of his achievements.

“His donation of £669.00 will go towards funding state of the art diagnostic equipment at Derriford Hospital and other hospitals right across the region. What challenge is next for our Tony, well he doesn’t know yet, he’s not decided, but who knows what’s around the corner for this intrepid postman.”