AN intrepid council boss will be scaling new heights this autumn to raise money for charity.

Damien Wilson will be climbing in the Alps in mid-September in aid of the Mayor of Hartlepool’s four nominated charities – the RNLI, Hartlepool Hospice, the Great North Air Ambulance and Miles For Men.

The 51-year-old, assistant director in regeneration for Hartlepool Council, said “I’ve been on several climbing expeditions before, including Mont Blanc in 2012, so when I decided on my latest challenge I thought it would be a good idea to raise some money for the Mayor’s charities which are all extremely worthy causes.

“I am looking forward to it and the intention is to climb three mountains in the Alps over 4,000m including Mont Blanc, weather permitting. I hope people are able to support me in my efforts to raise money and I know every pound raised will be so much appreciated by the four charities.”

Hartlepool’s Ceremonial Mayor, Councillor Stephen Akers-Belcher, who last year raised a record-breaking £43,000 for his nominated charities, said: “Climbing in the Alps is a massive challenge for the most experienced climbers and I wish him well in his latest adventure.”

Mr Wilson 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 Damien can do so by contacting him on 07717-348823 or email damien.wilson@hartlepool.gov.uk, alternatively, call 01429-284271.