A PORT Glasgow man who took on 'summit special' in memory of his late wife has raised a fortune for Ardgowan Hospice.

Ferguson Marine shipyard worker Lawrence Gemmell lost his wife Carolann four years ago to breast cancer.

He pushed himself to the limit to leave a lasting tribute to his wife on Mount Everest.

Joined by his friend and former workmate Robert Mitchell, the pair made the climb to Everest base camp where they left stones with the names of Carolann, his daughters and his grandchildren.

The pair's climb has raised £7,500 for the hospice.

Lawrence said: “We'd already taken on charity challenges in the past, including reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, so we never thought we would raise such a great amount again but people have been so supportive.

“The whole experience was incredible.

"I have never seen views like the ones on that trip and I probably never will again, it was amazing.”

Robert added: “We were going to the gym and tackling Munros at the weekends to train but it was tough and I am just delighted we made it.

“It is a relief to have made it and it was good to do it with my friend.

"We couldn’t be happier to hand over the money to Ardgowan Hospice.”

Linda McEnhill, hospice chief executive, was on hand to congratulate Lawrence and Robert and accept the cheque on behalf of the hospice.

She said: “What they have done is amazing.

"It is two huge achievements - getting to base camp of Everest and also raising such an amazing amount.

“The money will be used to help us support other patients and their families in what is often the most difficult point in their lives.

“It is a lovely tribute to Carolann and we can’t thank them enough.”

The modest duo say they couldn’t have done it without the sponsorship of many people.

Lawrence added: “The support has been amazing and we would like to thank our family, friends, colleagues at Ferguson Marine, Robert's colleagues at Faslane and everyone else who made a donation to support us.”