Cotopaxi volcano climbed for Royal British Legion

This past weekend saw a team of adventurers in Ecuador support the Royal British Legion by climbing to the summit of the active volcano Cotopaxi, the charity reports.

The climb took 15 hours and was part of the Battle Back & Mountaineering APPG Cotopaxi Expedition 2014.

Conditions were treacherous when the climb to the summit took place. A group of seven, from an overall team of 12, got all the way to the top.

The aim of the activity was to bring in donations for the Legion's Battle Back Centre.

The expedition team wants to bring in £10,000 for the Shropshire centre, which helps injured, wounded and sick personnel from the Armed Forces, offering sport activities.

Cotopaxi is 19,347ft high, and those who made it right to the top included MP Greg Mulholland.

He declared himself "shattered" post-climb and said he needed a warm bath.

"The climb was very heavy going and the incessant steep slopes were gruelling- this was ultimately the toughest physical challenge I have ever done. I’ve since been suffering with wind burn on my face and an aching neck!" he said.

He thanked all who had donated and said time remained to made a contribution through the team's JustGiving page.

The team that climbed Cotopaxi was made up of three MPs, as well as veterans and service personnel that have used the Battle Back Centre.

It comes after the team climbed to the top of three other Ecuadorian volcanoes: Pasochoa, Ruca Pichincha and Illiniza Norte.

They also got 4,900 ft up Cayambe before having to turn back because of deep snow and avalanche risk.

The Legion is gearing up for its Poppy Picnic day on June 21st, another fundraising activity, which will see people hold charity picnics. These can also take place during the rest of the summer, too.