Nineteen-year-old Kirsty Ward has climbed the highest mountain in the UK to raise money for the Norfolk children's charity Nelson's Journey.

Kirsty, pictured, who lives in Samson Road, Hellesdon and volunteers at camps hosted by the charity that helps bereaved children, joined a group of climbers on an expedition to the top of Ben Nevis on August 18.

She said: 'I had never done anything like it before. It was an incredible experience but really tough. I felt so proud to be wearing my Nelson's Journey T-shirt, and knowing I was raising funds for Nelson's Journey helped me to carry on and get to the top.'

She said it took four-and-a-half hours to reach the summit of Ben Nevis and three hours to climb down the mountain.

By completing the climb she has raised more than �500 for Nelson's Journey, a cause she said she is keen to support because of the charity's amazing work to help children.

Kirsty, who is studying an early years foundation degree at City College Norwich, said: 'I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported or sponsored me, including City College Norwich and Bigga Creations. I really appreciate all the support.'

Anybody wanting to add to Kirsty's fundraising total should visit www.justgiving.com/Kirsty-Ward0

For more information about Nelson's Journey: www.nelsonsjourney.org.uk