A TIVYSIDE man has scaled Africa’s highest peak Mount Kilimanjaro to raise thousands of pounds for Cancer Research Wales.

Daniel Smart, who owns and lives at Greenfields Holiday Park at Pentregat with his wife Donna, completed his epic trek up and down the 19,314ft peak in Tanzania in six days.

The 39-year-old dad of two has raised more than £2,000 from his Just Giving page, as well as fundraising in the park clubhouse and the spin club he attends in Newcastle Emlyn and hopes to bring in around £3,000 in total.

“It was an absolutely amazing experience,” said Daniel, who had to cope with temperatures ranging from minus 15 degrees centigrade at the summit to 28 degrees at the base.

“It was pretty tough and I had done a lot of training but nothing can prepare you for the effects of the altitude. Two guys had to be pulled off the mountain and half a dozen in my group really struggled but I seemed to be one of the lucky ones who could handle it.”

And it seems as though Daniel has now really got the adventure bug.

“I would go back tomorrow,” he said. “It was such a simple life and there was no internet or iPhones. You woke up, ate, walked and slept and it was very much back to basics. While I would not commit to it forever, it really gave everyone a strong sense of community.

“I am next looking at a trip across the Sahara desert but more than likely going up Mont Blanc.”

Proud wife Donna said: “He has shown massive commitment to do this and we are really proud of him. He has funded the whole trip himself so all funds raised will be going to Cancer Research Wales.

“He needed a challenge to get himself fit and motivated. Running a holiday park we are involved in a lot of people’s lives and many people who have stayed here are battling cancer and this is one way of giving something back.”

And what do the kids think of dad’s challenge?

“Daughter Lucy just wanted him back safely but Ethan thought it was cool,” added Donna.