A FEARLESS Monmouth teenager is competing in a gruelling challenge to raise money for Nepal.

15-year-old Jamie Bell-Thomas will take on the brutal 5 Peaks Challenge at the end of the school term alongside his father.

Jamie will climb Snowdon (Wales), Scafell Pike (England), Ben Nevis (Scotland), Slieve Donard (Northern Ireland) and finally Carrantuohill (Republic of Ireland).

The challenge encompasses hundreds of miles of road travel and more than 4,800 metres of climbing.

Jamie was moved to fundraise for Nepal after seeing the devastation caused by the recent earthquakes. He said: "The documentaries I saw showed so many graphic images of suffering.

"I don't think anybody could be unmoved by what we've seen on the television from Nepal.

"Our family knows some Nepalese people, who are all so humble and nice. The ones we know are worried about their families at home.

"People have been very supportive of my challenge and have all been wishing me well.

"I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who's supported me so far."

Currently, the Monmouth School pupil has raised more than £2,700 for the cause and is hoping to raise £5,000.

Dr Steven Connors, headmaster of Monmouth School, said: "We are all extremely proud of Jamie for taking on such a physically demanding challenge for such a worthy cause.

"He is a true role model for younger boys at the school, teaching them how one person can make a huge difference through hard work, determination and compassion for others.

"Jamie follows in the footsteps of old Monmothian Richard Parks, who made history by becoming the first ever person to climb the highest summit on each of the world's continents and stand on all three poles - the South Pole, North Pole and summit of Everest - in the same calendar year.

"This was an incredible feat achieved within seven months, with all money raised going to Marie Curie Cancer Care.

"The whole school community wishes Jamie all the very best of luck with his climbs."

To donate to Jamie's challenge, visit: http://www.justgiving.com/Alun-Thomas12">www.justgiving.com/Alun-Thomas12 or text JABT85 to 70070, followed by your amount – e.g. £5.