(Image: Provided)
A climbing challenge with a difference will see two gym owners scale the equivalent height of Mount Everest, inside a North East shopping centre.
Georgia Sybenga, 26, and her dad David Fairlamb, from South Shields, will take on the 29,031ft climb using static VersaClimber machines inside Eldon Square, Newcastle, in a bid to raise £4,000 for Cash For Kids: Mission Christmas.
The challenge will take place near Monument Metro Station on Saturday, October 17, with the pair aiming to complete the climb in under six hours in front of passing shoppers.
Ms Sybenga said: "We really wanted to do something that would push us, and of course climbing Everest is the biggest challenge there is.
"It was an easy decision to do it for Cash for Kids.
"The work they do is absolutely brilliant, and although it’s a little early to start thinking about Christmas yet, it just breaks my heart to hear how people struggle at that time of year in particular.
"Last year I heard on the radio about Cash for Kids, and a stat that stuck with me was that 46,000 families in the North East are supported by this charity – it’s so close to home, it could even be kids on your street that are struggling.
"So we wanted this to be our little way of supporting the cause and doing something meaningful, while also putting ourselves to the test – even though it will be hard going."
Ms Sybenga and Mr Fairlamb co-own Climbahub gym in Jesmond, which regularly runs classes using the specialised climbing machines.
The gym is also co-owned by TV presenter Steph McGovern.
The gym, which is co-owned by TV’s Steph McGovern, sees regular classes take place with the unique equipment. (Image: Provided)
The pair plan to each climb 14,500ft, taking turns until they reach the combined total of 29,031ft – the height of Mount Everest.
A second VersaClimber will be available for public use on the day, giving shoppers the chance to get involved or donate.
Ms Sybenga said: "My dad isn’t giving it to me easy mind, we are starting the challenge at 9am, and I am going to be teaching a class beforehand, so I won’t get much of a break.
"We are aiming to do it in under six hours, and while I feel quite prepared for the task, I think it will be so weird having people watching us while they are doing their shopping.
"But it’s a great way to grab attention and raise awareness of what we’re doing, and I’m so glad to be doing it with my Dad."
The challenge has already raised more than half of their £4,000 target.
Lisa Fox, charity fundraising executive at Cash For Kids North East, said: "What David and Georgia from Climbahub are taking on is truly incredible.
"Climbing the height of Mount Everest on a VersaClimber is no easy feat, and we’re so grateful they’re doing it to support Mission Christmas.
"Their determination will help bring Christmas magic to disadvantaged children across the North East, and we can’t thank them enough."