A TRAINEE solicitor from Darwen took on the UK's highest mountain.

Ryan Bickham (pictured), 24, from the Sidings, who works for Watson Ramsbottom solicitors in Great Harwood, scaled Ben Nevis in Scotland to raise money for charity.

Set to qualify as a solicitor next month, Ryan said he enjoyed the challenge.

"I have climbed other hills and mountains in the past, but nothing on such a massive scale."

Ryan was accompanied by his uncle and chief organiser Paul Blackledge from Blackburn and his cousin Elliott Blackledge, 15, from Holden Fold.

Their efforts raised over £900 for the Mosamaria AIDS Ministry in South Africa and St Mark's Church, Witton.

Ryan added: "It was difficult, especially when the weather began to close in, but definitely a worthwhile exercise."

Ryan, who attended Chester College of Law and the University of Central Lancashire to study law, said: "Next up is probably Scafell Pike but I will probably have a few weeks to recover first."