The Labour candidate for South Swindon at the next general election will be stepping up this weekend - repeatedly.

Heidi Alexander is joining a team from charity Phoenix Enterprises in climbing the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, in an attempt to raise thousands of pounds.

She and the 20 staff and supporters from Phoenix will be climbing the 1,345 metres of the mountain on Saturday.

Clare McDougall the chief executive of Phoenix Enterprises said: “Our commercial income covers around 40 per cent of our costs, so we’re always keen to find new ways to raise much-needed funds.

“Ben Nevis seemed like a great way to get fit whilst doing something really worthwhile. All the money raised will go towards supporting vulnerable people in Swindon and will enable us to continue providing transformative support services for those with learning disabilities and poor mental health.” 

Ms Alexander added: “Like so many organisations, Phoenix are grappling with rising costs and diminishing income and so anything that anyone can do to help with this fundraising effort will make an enormous difference.

“I wouldn’t say I’m one of the world’s natural mountain climbers, but I’m up for giving it a go for such a good cause. I’ve seen what an incredible difference Phoenix can make and so when Clare asked me to join the team, I couldn’t say no.” 

Phoenix Enterprises runs a supported employment programme for around 100 people every year, helping their service users develop key employment and life skills and building their confidence to enable them to transition into the world of work. The social enterprise has charitable status and carries out hand-assembly work which provides an income stream to support the employability programmes. 

The charity hopes to raise about £7,000 by its climb.

To sponsor the team visit: https://www.justgiving.com/team/phoenixbennevis