A LLANWRIN has raised an incredible £12,000 for the MS Society after completing a year long adventure finishing with a climb of Africa’s tallest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro.

And Moira Jones says it was training runs and walks in the nearby Dyfi Forests that first got her thinking about the 19,000ft peak.

“I decided to take part in a self-funded trek, as someone fortunate enough to lead a healthy lifestyle with relapsing-remitting MS, I knew this would be an amazing challenge and opportunity to raise awareness for the charity,” she said.

During the six-day expedition Moira and the group had to battle sleet, snow and strong side winds to reach the summit as a rare September storm closed in to try to thwart the summit attempt.

“Our camel pack water tubes froze halfway into our ascent despite insulation. 5.5km to Stella Point, with a brief respite and a welcome cup of tea by the amazing Chagga guides,” said Moira.

“We were cold and exhausted but not yet at the summit and already feeling the effects of dehydration. From Stella Point we made slow but steady progress to trek the final kilometre of trail to Uhuru Peak. The blizzard conditions persisted, weather rarely experienced during September.”

But the group battled on to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro at Uhuru Peak at around 5.40am, a feeling she describes as “unbelievable”.

“ I had reached the summit of Kilimanjaro, the Roof Of Africa.An opportunity for a photograph to prove my achievement and proudly display my Welsh flag.”

“It has been an incredible year and, weeks after reaching the summit, I still cannot believe what I have achieved.

“I must say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey and to every donation we have received. We are going to keep the funding opportunity open until the end of the year.

“I surpassed every expectation on this adventure and in raising awareness and money for the MS Society.”

Anyone who wishes to add to Moria’s total can do so online via www.justgiving.com/fundraising/moirajones-3