VIDEO: Graduate to climb 60 mountains for brother

A Thakeham graduate will climb 60 Scottish mountains in just 30 days to raise money for his disabled little brother.
JPCT 280512 S13221098x Chris Carnie with Matt Holbrook and his younger brother Peter. 60 Peak Challenge -photo by Steve CobbJPCT 280512 S13221098x Chris Carnie with Matt Holbrook and his younger brother Peter. 60 Peak Challenge -photo by Steve Cobb
JPCT 280512 S13221098x Chris Carnie with Matt Holbrook and his younger brother Peter. 60 Peak Challenge -photo by Steve Cobb

Former Steyning Grammar School student, Matt Holbrook, will be accompanied by Upper Beeding friend, Chris Carnie, next week in The 60 Peaks Challenge that will see them climb the equivalent of Mount Everest four times over.

The ambitious event will hope to raise £2,000 for Springboard Project Activities, a charity based in Horsham that supports disabled children under five years.

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“I have a little brother, Peter, who has Down’s Syndrome and he has a great time at Springboard,” said the 22-year-old.

JPCT 280512 S13221098x Chris Carnie with Matt Holbrook and his younger brother Peter. 60 Peak Challenge -photo by Steve CobbJPCT 280512 S13221098x Chris Carnie with Matt Holbrook and his younger brother Peter. 60 Peak Challenge -photo by Steve Cobb
JPCT 280512 S13221098x Chris Carnie with Matt Holbrook and his younger brother Peter. 60 Peak Challenge -photo by Steve Cobb

“It’s respite for my parents. My mum can place him in the hands of people she can trust for a few hours a month.”

Featuring ball pits, a sensory room and garden, Springboard Project Activities is a play centre for children who have complex health needs.

Suffering from learning difficulties and heart problems, six-year-old Peter needs around the clock care.

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Matt and Peter’s mother Jane said she is ‘thrilled’ and ‘proud’ of her son.

She said: “I’m very thrilled that he wants to do this adventurous project. I’m proud of him.”

Matt’s friend Chris, 21, who will be joining him on the quest, is also passionate about the charity.

“My mum’s on the board of trustees at Springboard and it’s a great free drop-in centre for the kids,” the Upper Beeding resident said.

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Climbing 60 Munros in the Scottish highlands, which are mountains at least 3,000 feet tall, from June 2 to July 1, the friends are starting to feel the pressure.

“I’m excited but nervous. I haven’t done anything of this size before,” added Matt.

Make a donation at justgiving.com/chris-carnie. For more details about the charity visit www.springboardproject.com

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