TWO intrepid North Herefordshire men proved they were up for a challenge when they completed the gruelling Welsh 3000.

Tony Collier, 51, and John Best, 42, took part in 30 miles of mountain walking along with 10,000 feet of climbing to summit all Snowdonia's mountains which are more than 3,000 feet in under 24 hours.

The pair, from Kington and Weobley, set off at 3am to get to the first mountain, Foel Fach, at 5am and in heavy rain, severe winds and limited visibility the pair ticked off the first seven mountains before descending to the Ogwen Valley to meet their support team, Keith Tindale and Lorraine Stowe.

The second stage of the challenge saw them climb Tryfan and the Glyder range and good weather set in as they completed the next five peaks before the final assault

and the final goal, Snowdon.

Mr Collier, fostering manager for Red Kite Fostering, said: "Most people camp out either end, making it a much shorter route but we decided to do it the hard way."

The pair have been climbing and walking partners for more than 20 years and this challenge has always been on their bucket list.

They plan to carry out the challenge again next year, with Keith from their support crew.

Mr Collier added: "I said never again. But endurance challenges get to you, I cant wait until next year."

They raised more than £1,500 for Myeloma UK, a leading charity supporting people with blood cancers.

Anyone wishing to donate can visit justgiving.com/W3K15