Chadderton mountaineer gearing up for next epic challenge

Seeing news footage of the Lebanese explosion that left 181 dead and tens of thousands homeless brought a Chadderton explorer back down to earth after he had just conquered Kilimanjaro and Mont Blanc.

Self-styled Bengali mountaineer Akke Rahman saw the horrendous incident unfold on one of the first news broadcasts he tuned-into, literally hours after raising money for children in Oldham.

And he was so moved that he immediately plotted a mission to Russian giant, Mount Elbrus, in an effort to raise cash and help the rescue operation.

“Perhaps it was because I had just collected so much money to help disadvantaged children in Oldham, but the images of babies and youngsters suffering reminded me that I could do something about this,” said Akke,

“I immediately got hold of friends at the GRT charity (who work in disaster zones across the globe) and planned the trip.

"The devastation to buildings and more importantly people’s lives needs to be addressed – and we can all help.”

Located in the Western Caucuses of Russia, Mount Elbrus is Europe’s highest summit.

Having reached the peak of Mont Blanc and Kilimanjaro in the space of a fortnight, you would think this is a piece of cake for Akke.

But an attempt to scale it last year ended in failure – when his guide warned him that frostbite could cost him his nose!

One of the most pleasing aspects of Akke’s recent conquests has been that he has been able to showcase Oldham businesses such as Xquisite events on his banners and clothing and hoist a Bangladesh/Union Jack flag when at the zenith.

Of most satisfaction though is the news that Akke’s exploits have inspired other members of his community to do more exercise and become fitter.

Added Akke: “People have said they have noticed me training on the streets of Oldham and have decided to take up running.

"For many reasons, including working long hours, people from the South Asian community are not looking after themselves properly.

"If I can encourage one person to change their lifestyle and indeed think more about charitable giving, the exhausting journeys to the top of the world’s highest mountains would all have been worthwhile.”

The Bengali Mountaineer sets off for his Mount Elbrus mission on Friday week, September 11.

You can back his herculean efforts by clicking here

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