AN explorer helped raise more than £30,000 for charity with two fundraising evenings.

Sir Ranulph Fiennes, the only man to ever circumnavigate the Earth along its polar axis, helped Durham-based Northumbrian Water raise the money for the charity Water Aid.

The intrepid explorer held speaking events at Ramside Hall Hotel in Durham and another in London during February, organised in association with Northumbrian Water, Esh Construction and MJK Sportsevents.

Heidi Mottram, chief executive of Northumbrian Water, said: “It was a fascinating evening to hear the experiences of one of the ‘World’s Greatest Living Explorers’ and to learn about what motivates Sir Ranulph.

“It is also an amazing total and one that will really changes lives around the globe.”

She added: “I visited Malawi with WaterAid, so I can tell you that this is an amazing charity, with great people who are making a difference to the lives of so many.

“It’s inspirational to see how something we take for granted, gives health and access to education - particularly for girls and women, who often collect the bulk of water travelling long distances to collect supplies, preventing them from attending school.

“A close source of fresh, safe drinking water can allow people to take control of their lives and make a better future for themselves and their families.”

The two events raised a total of £30,500.

Andrew Blakemore, Chairman of the Northumbrian WaterAid Committee, said: “It was a fantastic set of events and we’ve raised a massive total to support the work of WaterAid, I’d like to thank Sir Ranulph Fiennes for agreeing to talk about his life and adventures”.