David completes Himalayan trek

From the Wiltshire Times, first published Tuesday 25th Dec 2007.

A MCDONALD'S manager is celebrating after completing a Himalayan trek to raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities, which provides accommodation for families with children in hospital.

David Williamson, 48, of St George's Road, Semington, a former officer at RAF Hullavington who now owns restaurants in Chippenham, Trowbridge and Melksham, travelled to Nepal with 17 former Royal Air Force comrades.

The two-week trek saw the group journey to the Gokyo Lakes near the Everest Base Camp where they reached an altitude of 5,545m.

Mr Williamson said: "I'm very proud to have completed the trek and raised funds for such a worthwhile cause.

"The trip was an amazing and very enjoyable experience although it was certainly gruelling at times.

"I had trained for months but nothing can prepare you for the effects of such high altitudes, which can create headaches and shortness of breath.

"There were also a few hair-raising moments along the way."

The group flew to Kathmandu and then took an internal flight to Lukla near the Everest Base Camp.

The airport is situated by a sheer cliff face on a mountain side and is one of the highest in the world. Mr Williamson described the landing as a little nerve-wracking'.

He added: "We also had to contend with passing long yak trains' on steep mountain paths and even rope bridges."

During the trek the group faced hot sunshine during the day and temperatures as low as minus 15 degrees Centigrade at night as well as a 50 per cent reduction in oxygen levels.

For part of the journey they also trekked with competitors training for the arduous Everest Marathon including the world ladies fell running champion.

Mr Williamson said: "As well as catching-up with some long-lost friends, I have made some new friends for life and would like to say a big thank you to everyone involved.

"Nepal is a beautiful country and we had some stunning views of Mount Everest. I am now looking to return to do another charity trek with a team from McDonald's, possibly to the Everest Base Camp."

Mr Williamson is continuing to collect sponsorship for the trip and anyone wishing to contribute should visit www.justgiving.com/davidlwilliamson.

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