FIVE Dorset men have told of their success after completing the Three Peaks Challenge.

They successfully climbed Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours to raise nearly £3,000 for a charity which helped a Dorchester teen suffering from leukaemia.

Al Hodges, Ade Burton, Billy Wilson, Jon Massey and Dave Cutting were supported by their driver Mark Machin.

They were inspired to raise money when they heard how the Dorchester-based Help A Friend charity assisted their friend Kieron Harvey whose son Rian, a student at Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia aged 14.

Al Hodges said: “We practised on the coastal path and there’s some killer hills around Lulworth, but when you get to the mountains you fully appreciate how tall they are, so our legs are still aching.”

“We’ve been celebrating, it’s a relief. Kieron messaged us all the way through and he congratulated us. That’s what it’s all about for us because I feel we’ve done something good if it helps people like Kieron and his family,” he added.

Kieron Harvey said: “Rian spent such a long time in hospital that his mum and I practically lived there and Sarah had to give up work. Along with another charity The Rainbow Trust, Help A Friend really supported us.”

“I’m staggered by the support of friends, family and fundraisers; it really restores your faith in humanity. Rian’s over the moon too. He’s been so taken aback by the sheer generosity of everyone who has been doing these feats. He’s overwhelmed and feels humbled,” he added.

As for Rian, Kieron said: “He’s bounced back now, you almost wouldn’t know he had cancer.

“He’s got more drive, more determination and more spirit because of it and has developed an inner strength and belief in himself which is remarkable.

“He’s back at school now and has started working in a local pub, so he’s doing really well.”

The team’s Dorset-based employers also helped, with Bridport company Corbin Industries funding the mini bus and Wessex Water supplying £300 of fuel and matching £250 fundraising.

To make a donation visit justgiving.com/N3Phelpafriend