Chichester man stuck on Mount Everest after Nepal earthquake

More than 3,000 people are understood to have died in the disaster and the resulting avalanche on the world’s largest mountain also claimed the lives of many explorers.

Thankfully Rupert Jones-Warner from Chichester, who was on Everest at the time, survived the tragedy and is currently waiting back at base camp uninjured.

The Observer only recently reported on Rupert’s amazing trek as the 23-year-old was bidding to become the first Britain to traverse Mount Everest in a bid to raise £50,000 for Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice.

Sadly he has had to abandon his mission, though incredibly Rupert is already planning to join the rescue effort as soon as he can.

Janet Parsons from Chestnut Tree House said: “It’s such a disaster, what has happened is truly awful and as you can imagine we are all relieved Rupert is safe.

“He’s a lovely young man, a true inspiration for someone so young because he was attempting to become the first Britain to traverse Everest for our hospice.

“Sadly he’s had to abandon his attempt but his first thoughts have been to want to join the rescue effort and help those poor people who are trapped.”

Janet said someone from the hospice had made contact with Rupert, who has said although he isn’t injured there are concerns that another quake might strike with a number of after shocks felt being felt on the mountain.

“We are full of admiration for what he’s doing but also very concerned that he stays safe,” Janet added.