It HAS been almost 20 years since former Bicester mayor Dan Sames climbed a mountain. But now he has scaled three in little more than a day.

Mr Sames, 40, tackled the Three Peaks Challenge climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon with fellow councillor Nick Mawer and troops from Bicester’s 23 Pioneer Regiment.

The group completed the challenge in 29 hours and 45 minutes – missing their target of 24 hours.

The group has so far raised £2,000 for the Army Benevolent Fund.

Sgt Lee Pearn, of 23 Pioneer Regiment, based at St David’s Barracks, Bicester said: “There were various things that affected our time; the minibus was restricted to 60 mph, which added lots of time to our travel in between Peaks.

“The weather was horrendous, which didn't help our time either, as it affected us and slowed our pace.”

Mr Sames said the last time he climbed a mountain was when he started Royal Navy officer training at Dartmouth training college, but said the Three Peaks Challenge was tough.

He said: “It was one of the hardest things I have done and I am grateful for the guys from the regiment getting me up and down all three Peaks.

“With Bicester being very much a garrison town we felt that we wanted to do something to show our support for the work of the ABF and those serving in the Army.

“I’d always wanted to do the Three Peaks and the timing seemed right on the back of being mayor.”

Fellow town and district councillor Nick Mawer said: “The hardest bit was probably the final ascent on Snowdon.

“The weather was really against us, with a strong gusting wind, and driving rain that made way to hail for the summit ridge. Navigation was also difficult in the dark and clouds on Scafell, but we always found our way eventually.

“The easiest bit was all of it, now that I have forgotten the aches and pains. I would do it again for sure.”

To donate to the appeal should view justgiving.com/teams/BicesterPioneers