TWO leading businessmen have dug deep to back a man tackling a mountain climb to raise money for charity.

Damien Wilson, assistant director for regeneration for Hartlepool Council, will be climbing in the Alps in mid-September in aid of the Mayor of Hartlepool Councillor Stephen Akers-Belcher’s ’s four nominated charities – the RNLI, Hartlepool Hospice, the Great North Air Ambulance and Miles For Men.

And his fundraising efforts were boosted by Hartlepool entrepreneur Brian Morton – owner of several businesses in the town - who has donated £1,000 and Camerons Brewery managing director Chris Soley, who has given £500 from his company.

This has taken the total raised by Mr Wilson so far to more than £3,000.

The 51-year-old keen climber said: “To receive such generous backing from two of Hartlepool’s most prominent businessmen is marvellous and really spurs me on.

“Every penny raised by my climb will go to four excellent charities which do so much for the people of Hartlepool.”

Mr Morton said: “Damien is a marvellous example of how people in Hartlepool go the extra mile to help others – and boy is he going the extra mile.”

Mr Soley added: “When we heard about Damien’s mighty challenge we were keen to support him by contributing to his hard-earned fundraising.”

Weather permitting, he intends to climb three mountains in the Alps over 4,000m, including Mont Blanc.

He will be climbing with his cousin Mark Charlton, an Alpine guide, ski mountaineer and ice climber, who lives and works in Chamonix.

The expedition will take place between September 14 and 21.

Anyone interested in sponsoring Mr Wilson can contact him on 07717-348823 or email damien.wilson@hartlepool.gov.uk