THREE businessmen have raised more than £15,000 for charity by scaling Africa’s highest mountain.

Graham Sheldon, Steve Coulthard and Marc Borley, from Bishop Auckland, climbed to the summit of Kilimanjaro in just five days last month in aid of the Coco charity.

Set up by the former world champion athlete Steve Cram, the charity raises money to improve the lives of children living in poverty through education and healthcare.

Each man raised £5,000 for Coco, as well as raising cash for local causes, including St Mary’s Juniors Football Club, where Mr Coulthard, 60, is chairman.

The trio trained extensively before the trip, regularly walking in the Lake District and at Roseberry Topping in east Cleveland.

But although the training stood them in good stead, nothing could fully prepare them for challenges the 5,895-metre mountain presented.

Mr Sheldon, 59, said: “It was the hardest thing any of us have ever done but it was also the most rewarding thing. We started the final trek to the summit and walked through the night so we could get there for the sunrise.

“It was hard climbing at such a high altitude and it was very cold, especially with the wind chill factors.”

The friends are still accepting donations and would like to thank everyone who has supported them so far.

Mr Sheldon added: “We have been overwhelmed by people’s generosity and it has been a privilege to support such worthwhile causes.”

To sponsor Mr Sheldon visit justgiving.com/Graham-Sheldon1 or for Mr Coulthard visit justgiving.com/stevecoulthard