Super-fit businessman Munir Deen has raised £2,500 for charity by climbing nearly 20,000ft to the top of one of Africa's toughest peaks.

Mr Deen, 36, boss of Fastway Couriers in Moss Road, Witham, raised the cash for the Lupus Trust after two friends were diagnosed with the crippling and incurable disease.

It mostly attacks women of child-bearing age, and causes extreme fatigue, joint pain and aching muscles.

Munir Deen

Reaching the top of Mount Kilimanjaro was extremely satisfying.

He said. "It was mind-blowing, a really hard experience, but a unique feeling that I shall never forget. It feels like a huge achievement."

He had to train hard to get fit enough to brave high altitudes, temperatures of 20degrees under and winds of up to 40mph on the long trek to the top.

"We were so high that shortness of breath was a constant problem."

Now, fitter than he has ever been, he is in the mood for other challenges and is thinking about organising a cycle trip to raise more money for charity.

Anyone who wants to donate to the Lupus Trust can call him on 07736364666.

Published Friday, December 13, 2002

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