| 04 November 2009 |
|
Mountain Climbers Recognised |
|
.jpg) A NI couple who have scaled the world's highest peak have been honoured.
Stormont First Minister Peter Robinson and the Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness, met Noel and Lynne Hanna (pictured) this week.
They are the first married couple from Northern Ireland to scale the heights of Mount Everest.
Commenting on their remarkable success, the First Minister said: "It is not often that we are given the opportunity to welcome individuals who have exhibited such drive and determination to Stormont, but we find ourselves in the presence of two such people – this extraordinary feat of fortitude and bravery should be an inspiration to all of what can be achieved with determination, courage and no doubt months, if not years, of rigorous training and sacrifice."
Adding his own personal congratulations, Martin McGuinness said: "The couple's incredible achievement was all the more noteworthy as they are using the expedition through a series of talks and events to raise £150,000 for the Ulster Cancer Foundations 'Personal Everest Project'.
"This project seeks to inspire the public to become involved – set their own 'Personal Everest Challenge' - such as losing weight, giving up smoking and setting new exercise goals – challenges for all to consider," he said.
Both Ministers acknowledged the work that the couple have done over the years in raising funds for the Ulster Cancer Foundation and recognised the couple's commitment and long term support for the charity.
Lynne and Noel reached the summit in May this year, led by legendary Russian climber and guide Nicholay Cherhy.
Joyce Savage, Head of Appeals & Marketing, Ulster Cancer Foundation, said at the time: "This is a tremendous achievement and we send our heartiest congratulations!
"We have been eagerly following their progress and we've been in regular contact with them as they charted every step of their climb for us."
See: Everest Conquered For UCF
(BMcC/KMcA) |
|
| Top 10 Northern Ireland News Stories |
| 20 November 2009 |
| Civil Service Pay Deal On Way? |
|
| 20 November 2009 |
| Swine Flu Kills Two More |
|
| 20 November 2009 |
| Quad Bike Tragedy Mourned |
|
| 20 November 2009 |
| Death Threat To DPP Chair |
|
| 20 November 2009 |
| Swine Flu Jab Extended To Children |
|
| 20 November 2009 |
| Coleraine Councillor Co-Opted To Stormont |
|
| 20 November 2009 |
| Business Start-Ups Rising |
|
| 20 November 2009 |
| FIFA Rules Out Irish Rematch |
|
| 20 November 2009 |
| Miss NI's Blog Promotes Cooperation |
|
| 19 November 2009 |
| Paisley's Hopes For Power-Sharing |
|
|
| Submit a news item |
| News Archive |
