Sutherland great-grandmother (90) reaches the summit in fundraising challenge
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A 90-year-old Sutherland woman has reached the summit of her staircase challenge – by replicating an ascent of Suilven.
Margaret Payne completed a unique fundraising effort as she made the 282nd and final climb of the stairs at her Ardvar home – the equivalent height of the 2398ft mountain.
Mrs Payne, a great-grandmother, has so far raised £427,523 for NHS Charities Together, NHS Highland, RNLI and Highland Hospice.
Her initial target when she began the challenge in April was to raise £10,000 but her endeavours have captured the hearts of people far and wide.
The hospice announced her achievement on Tuesday via social media, commenting: "What an amazing lady! What an amazing feat!"
She has also been praised in the Scottish Parliament as well as receiving a letter of congratulation recently from Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay.
“There could hardly be a better example of this indomitable spirit than your own magnificent efforts in raising money for vital charities,” the prince told Mrs Payne.
“It is people like yourself who show that for every hardship there has been a hero – or, of course, a heroine.
“So, in great admiration of your incredible efforts, my wife and I send you our warmest congratulations on your splendid achievement!”
Mrs Payne first reached the summit of Suilven in 1944 at the age of 15, with her elder sister Elizabeth, two friends and dog called Snowy, after being evacuated to Lochinver during World War II.
Donations can still be made at Virginmoneygiving.com/MargaretPayneArdvar-SuilvenChallenge
